Singapore (Commonwealth Union)_ Singaporeans will cast their votes on 3rd May 2025 in the nation’s 14th General Election, following the formal dissolution of Parliament by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on 15th April. This pivotal election comes amid growing economic uncertainty and concerns over the rising cost of living, setting the stage for a highly anticipated contest that could reshape the political landscape. The election marks the first national vote under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who assumed leadership of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in May 2024, succeeding former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Wong’s leadership begins during a turbulent global climate, with the city-state facing slowing growth and ongoing concerns over potential US trade tariffs, which could impact its export-reliant economy.
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In a public address on social media, Prime Minister Wong emphasized the gravity of the moment. “We are witnessing profound changes in the world. It is becoming more uncertain, unsettled, and even unstable,” he stated. “That is why I have called this General Election. At this critical juncture, Singaporeans should decide on the team to lead our nation and chart our way forward together.” Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry recently revised the nation’s 2025 GDP growth forecast down to 0%-2%, from the earlier 1%-3% projection. Economic challenges remain front and center, with Prime Minister Wong warning that protectionist measures abroad, particularly from the US, could result in significant job displacement and trade disruptions for Singapore.
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Nomination day has been scheduled for 23rd April, officially launching the campaign period, which will run until 1st May. The campaign traditionally concludes with the May Day rally, where labour and government leaders address the public. A cooling-off day on 2nd May will precede voting, offering a 24-hour pause for reflection. This election will be closely watched for shifts in voter sentiment. In the 2020 General Election, the PAP secured 61.24% of the vote, winning 83 out of 93 seats. However, the Workers’ Party (WP) achieved a historic milestone by capturing a second Group Representation Constituency (GRC), and its leader, Pritam Singh, was appointed as the country’s first official Leader of the Opposition. The opposition’s success reflected a growing appetite for political diversity.
This year, all 97 parliamentary seats will be contested across 33 constituencies, which include 18 GRCs and 15 Single Member Constituencies (SMCs). This marks an increase of four seats compared to the previous election. The Electoral Boundaries Review Committee (EBRC), convened in January 2025, introduced a revised electoral map while maintaining nine existing constituencies unchanged. Prime Minister Wong is expected to introduce around 30 new candidates in what has been described as the PAP’s most significant leadership renewal effort to date. The full list of candidates will be confirmed on nomination day.
The upcoming vote also marks a return to full-scale campaigning, including physical rallies, a practice not seen for over a decade and absent during the pandemic-affected 2020 election. Political parties, including two opposition alliances and nine other parties, have intensified outreach efforts as they prepare for what is anticipated to be a fully contested election. Voter concerns remain focused on the rising cost of living and employment stability. These issues were highlighted in a recent national survey and are expected to dominate campaign platforms. On polling day, a sample count involving 100 randomly selected ballots from each constituency will be conducted to provide an early indication of the results. The Elections Department (ELD) stated that this process helps curb misinformation and supports accurate reporting.
Once counting is completed, results from all local centres will be compiled and released. If overseas votes could affect the outcome, the final declaration will be postponed until those ballots are tallied. Otherwise, winners will be announced based on the local count. All election materials, including ballot papers, will be sealed and stored securely for six months following the election. Unless directed otherwise by the President, these materials will be destroyed thereafter. Final results and elected representatives will be officially published in the Singapore Government Gazette, formally concluding the election process.
