Singapore’s long-dominant People’s Action Party (PAP) scored a resounding victory in Saturday’s general elections, winning 87 out of 97 parliamentary seats and extending its uninterrupted 66-year rule.
The landslide marks a strong endorsement of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took over from Lee Hsien Loong in 2024. Wong, 52, said he was “humbled and grateful” for the mandate and pledged to guide Singapore through mounting economic challenges.
The PAP’s share of the popular vote rose to 65.6%, up from 61% in the 2020 polls, a boost analysts attributed to public desire for stability amid global economic uncertainty. The opposition Workers Party retained its 10 seats but failed to make gains.
“The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world,” Wong said.
The opposition had campaigned on rising costs of living and the need for political diversity, but struggled with limited resources and fragmented support. Workers Party leader Pritam Singh said his party would continue to push for a more balanced Parliament.
The United States congratulated Singapore on the election outcome. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the strong US-Singapore partnership and said Washington looks forward to deepening economic and defense ties under Wong’s leadership.
Political analyst Bridget Welsh noted Wong’s more relatable image and efforts to refresh PAP’s ranks helped sway voters. “The issue of economic insecurity really did reinforce his mandate,” she said.
The landslide marks a strong endorsement of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took over from Lee Hsien Loong in 2024. Wong, 52, said he was “humbled and grateful” for the mandate and pledged to guide Singapore through mounting economic challenges.
The PAP’s share of the popular vote rose to 65.6%, up from 61% in the 2020 polls, a boost analysts attributed to public desire for stability amid global economic uncertainty. The opposition Workers Party retained its 10 seats but failed to make gains.
“The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world,” Wong said.
The opposition had campaigned on rising costs of living and the need for political diversity, but struggled with limited resources and fragmented support. Workers Party leader Pritam Singh said his party would continue to push for a more balanced Parliament.
The United States congratulated Singapore on the election outcome. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the strong US-Singapore partnership and said Washington looks forward to deepening economic and defense ties under Wong’s leadership.
Political analyst Bridget Welsh noted Wong’s more relatable image and efforts to refresh PAP’s ranks helped sway voters. “The issue of economic insecurity really did reinforce his mandate,” she said.
