Indian-origin ex-minister joins Chinese-origin contenders in final race for Singapore President position

Singapore: Singapore-born Indian-origin presidential candidate Tharman Shanmugaratnam, along with Chinese-origin former business executives Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian, has been confirmed as a contender for the upcoming presidential election in the prosperous city-state, said the Elections Department (ELD).

The three candidates, officially declared by the ELD, are now poised to compete for Singapore's highest non-political post.

The official announcement solidifies their participation in the race, binding them to the contest with forfeiture of their election deposits amounting to SGD 40,500 each if they withdraw, said a report by The Straits Times newspaper.

As the trio is now officially in the race, their campaigning can commence, with the period ending on August 30. The cooling-off day is scheduled for August 31, and the Polling Day is set for September 1.

The current incumbent, President Halimah Yacob, will see her six-year term culminate on September 13.

Upon his nomination, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former senior minister in the ruling People's Action Party Government, articulated his anticipation of a respectful and honourable contest. He emphasised the significance of the candidates' contributions to Singapore's future and its citizens. He said, "Let's look forward to a campaign, which is dignified and honourable, and a campaign that itself seeks to unite Singaporeans and not divide us."

Addressing the media, Tharman underscored that his candidacy stems from a lifelong purpose rather than new positions or statements. "I believe in a fairer, more compassionate, and more inclusive society. And my life is dedicated to that. Singapore can be special," he said.

Having relinquished all political and public offices in July to vie for the presidency, Tharman asserted, "It is our future that we are concerned about." He expressed his dedication to serving Singaporeans with his wealth of experience and capabilities.

Tharman, a former economist and civil servant primarily at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, ventured into politics in 2001. His notable roles include serving as Minister for Education and Finance and Deputy Prime Minister from 2011 to 2019.

Ng Kok Song, presenting himself in Chinese, Malay, and Tamil, articulated his aspiration to serve Singapore's national treasures – reserves, public service appointments, and social stability. He said, "I feel excited that the people of Singapore are giving me this opportunity to serve my country one more time."

Tan Kin Lian, on the other hand, aimed to provide Singaporeans "a chance to vote for a president who is truly independent of the ruling government." He pledged to carry out his constitutional duties diligently, honestly, and to the best of his ability.

While the presidency is a non-political role, it holds crucial responsibilities in the city-state, encompassing vital state appointments and safeguarding the national reserves – resources accessible only with presidential consensus.