New President of Singapore: Meet the Newly Elected Leader

You may have heard that Singapore has a new President! Tharman Shanmugaratnam was inaugurated as Singapore’s ninth President on September 14, 2023, after securing a landslide victory with over 70% of the vote in the Presidential Election. He is the first presidential candidate not of Chinese descent to win in a contested presidential election in Singapore.

Tharman Shanmugaratnam is a well-known figure in Singaporean politics, having previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. He is widely respected for his expertise in economics and finance, and is seen as a unifying figure who can bring different groups together. During his campaign, he emphasized the importance of building a more inclusive society, tackling climate change, and ensuring that Singapore remains competitive in the global economy.

So what does Tharman’s election mean for Singapore and its people? In this article, we will explore the Presidential Election process, Tharman’s profile and policies, and answer some frequently asked questions about the new President. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what Tharman’s election means for Singapore, and what we can expect from him in the years to come.

Presidential Election Process

Candidates and Eligibility

To be eligible to run for the position of President in Singapore, candidates must meet certain criteria. They must be a citizen of Singapore, at least 45 years old, and have held a position of seniority and responsibility in a public office or in a private sector organization with a minimum of three years of experience. Additionally, candidates must not have a criminal record and must not have declared bankruptcy.

Campaign and Support

Candidates are allowed to campaign for the position of President, but they are not allowed to engage in any form of electioneering. They are also not allowed to receive any form of financial support from any organization or individual. Instead, they are required to use their own funds to finance their campaign.

Voting and Results

On the day of the Presidential Election, voters head to their designated polling stations to cast their vote. The Elections Department oversees the entire process. Once the polls close, the sample count is conducted to ensure that the votes have been properly recorded. The final results are then announced by the Returning Officer.

In the 2023 Presidential Election, Tharman Shanmugaratnam won by a landslide victory, securing 70.4% of the vote. This overwhelming lead gave him a strong mandate and vote of confidence from the people of Singapore.