Major Political Reshuffle in Potong Pasir

In a stunning move ahead of the upcoming elections, lawyer Alex Yeo has officially been announced as the People's Action Party (PAP) candidate for Potong Pasir, taking over from the long-serving Sitoh Yih Pin who is stepping down after three terms.

At 46, Yeo is not new to the political scene; he made his debut in 2020 during the elections in Aljunied GRC, where the PAP unfortunately faced a defeat with only 40.05% of the votes compared to the Workers' Party’s 59.95%.

A Familiar Face Returning Home

Yeo expressed deep ties to Potong Pasir, having volunteered in the area since 2013. "It feels like I have come home... A part of me never actually left Potong Pasir," he remarked during a press briefing.

He openly credited outgoing MP Sitoh as a mentor, stating, "I have learned many lessons in community leadership and service from him." Sitoh has been a familiar face in Potong Pasir since 2011, battling the political legacy left by veteran opposition figure Chiam See Tong.

A Vision for the Future

Yeo is gearing up to share his vision for Potong Pasir, with plans for a comprehensive manifesto outlining improvements over the next five years. His agenda includes both essential infrastructural upgrades and community-oriented initiatives, promising to strengthen family support and community bonds.

"We will focus on infrastructure improvements—think more sheltered walkways and overhead bridges—while also emphasizing people-centered initiatives, like mobile clinics for our seniors," he said.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

Yeo is keenly aware of the area’s rich political heritage and is committed to earning the trust of the voters. "I know I cannot simply ride on the good work of my predecessors," he noted, emphasizing the importance of understanding the community's unique legacy while addressing its future aspirations.

Sitoh Yih Pin’s Departure

Sitoh, who has been instrumental in securing Potong Pasir since winning back the seat in 2011, expressed his desire to spend more time with his family post-political career, particularly his three-year-old granddaughter.

Reflecting on his journey, Sitoh stated, "Entering politics was a challenge, but it has been incredibly rewarding to serve the community." He faced significant battles against formidable opponents, including the likes of Chiam, who held the seat for 27 years.

A Bright Future Ahead for Potong Pasir?

With Yeo’s experience drawn from his eight years in Aljunied GRC and his commitment to Potong Pasir, he is set to take an active role in the constituency's future. Contenders from the Singapore People’s Party are expected to challenge him in what might be a fierce electoral showdown.

As the political landscape shifts, Alex Yeo aims to bridge the past with new developments that resonate with residents, promising to listen and engage with the community as he embarks on this new chapter.