Weighing the possible changes to Singapore’s political system

In a commentary, SMU Associate Professor of Law Eugene Tan shared his views on the key issues outlined by President Tony Tan Keng Yam during his opening address at the first session of the 13th Parliament. Associate Prof Tan noted that President Tan had emphasised that our political system must be refreshed from time to time, as our circumstances change, and that the Government will study this matter carefully, to see whether and how we should improve our political system so that we can be assured of clean, effective, and accountable government over the long term. Associate Prof Tan said that the key challenge in this review pivots on keeping Singapore’s parliamentary democracy relevant in a one-party-dominant political system. He expressed confidence that there will be strong public interest in the review of the political system, adding that hopes will be high that the evolving institutional design will be more inclusive, representative, equitable and fair, in tandem with the growing democratic aspirations of Singaporeans.