A New Era in Sengkang GRC's Political Landscape

SINGAPORE: The stage is set for a thrilling political showdown in Sengkang GRC as the incumbent Workers' Party (WP) faces off against a rejuvenated team from the People's Action Party (PAP), led by Dr. Lam Pin Min, in the upcoming General Election on May 3.

On April 23, candidates from both parties officially submitted their nomination papers at Yusof Ishak Secondary School, marking the official commencement of their electoral campaigns.

Meet the Contenders: WP vs. PAP

The Workers' Party squad is comprised of familiar faces: Ms. He Ting Ru, Mr. Louis Chua, and Associate Professor Jamus Lim, along with newcomer Mr. Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik, a senior property manager stepping in for former MP Raeesah Khan, who resigned amid scandal in 2021.

Dr. Lam, the lone survivor from the PAP's GE2020 lineup, will lead a team that includes fresh candidates: Ms. Bernadette Giam, Ms. Theodora Lai, and Associate Professor Elmie Nekmat, aiming to reclaim trust and support from the electorate.

A Significant Voter Base Awaits

Sengkang GRC is home to 126,641 voters, with electoral boundaries unchanged since the last election, ensuring that the stakes are higher as both parties vie for signature issues and strategies to captivate the electorate.

Voices for Change vs. Trust Rebuilding

In a passionate address, Ms. He expressed pride in the WP's record, saying, "It has been a privilege to serve as your representatives in parliament...We are seeking your vote to continue our work for Sengkang." Meanwhile, Dr. Lam emphasized the importance of their four-year effort to regain trust, asserting their commitment to being the community's voice in parliament.

The 2020 Context: A Battle for Resistance

In the 2020 elections, the WP delivered a stunning performance, defeating the PAP team led by labour chief Ng Chee Meng with 52.12% of the vote—a narrow yet historic victory that positioned Sengkang GRC as only the second opposition-held GRC in Singapore's history, following Aljunied GRC.

This ground-breaking win boosted the presence of the WP in parliament to four members, which prompted then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to officially designate WP leader Pritam Singh as Leader of the Opposition.

A Race to Watch!

As the campaign heats up, all eyes will be on Sengkang GRC, where strategies, debates, and voter engagement will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in determining the outcome of this hotly contested election.