Nomination Day Ignites Excitement for Singapore's Polls

April 23 was no ordinary day in Singapore as candidates from 11 political parties descended upon nine nomination centres, marking the fiery beginning of the race for the 14th General Election. With the official campaign period starting immediately after nominations, Singaporeans are bracing themselves to cast their votes on May 3, following a Cooling-off Day on May 2.

1. Uncontested Walkover: Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC

In a twist of fate, the People's Action Party (PAP) breezed through Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC without contestation. The PAP team, including heavyweights like Speaker Seah Kian Peng and Minister Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, will secure their seats unchallenged. In a last-minute shocker, the Workers' Party (WP) chose not to field a candidate, resulting in a walkover—the first since Tanjong Pagar GRC’s uncontested victory in 2011.

2. Heavyweights Make Surprising Switches

In a strategic shake-up, the ruling PAP moved Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong from Chua Chu Kang GRC to Punggol GRC. Meanwhile, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng stepped into Gan's former spot, creating a buzz as changes came swiftly and unexpectedly. Even the WP's Faisal Manap made headlines, shifting from Aljunied GRC to spearhead the Tampines GRC team.

3. Punggol GRC: The Thrill of the Contest

With all eyes on Punggol GRC, this constituency has become the battleground to watch. The WP has drafted senior counsel Harpreet Singh Nehal into their lineup, alongside fresh faces, intensifying the electoral stakes. Anticipating fierce competition, the PAP is banking on Gan’s experience to secure a win.

4. Exit of Political Giants: A Changing Guard

In a bittersweet farewell, senior political figures Teo Chee Hean and Heng Swee Keat announced their retirement. These veterans, who played pivotal roles since the 90s, were present but not fielded, handing the political baton to a new generation.

5. Multi-Cornered Fights Set for Tension and Drama

The upcoming election promises drama with multiple constituencies housing contenders from various parties. In Tampines GRC alone, a fierce four-way battle will unfold between the PAP, WP, National Solidarity Party (NSP), and People’s Power Party (PPP). Meanwhile, Ang Mo Kio and Sembawang GRCs will also see their own multi-cornered showdowns. These rivalries are generating considerable anticipation as candidates clash for voter support.