Singapore’s next general election, to be held no later than November 2025, has kickstarted the gears of the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) campaign machinery.
At their campaign launch on May 11, party secretary-general Chee Soon Juan and chairman Paul Tambyah stated that the SDP will focus on issues such as immigration, foreign workers, cost of living, and national identity. However, this strategy is not new—a recurring theme for the SDP in past elections.
Early start, same finish?
One major flaw of smaller opposition parties in Singapore is their reliance on personality cults. Even larger opposition parties often centre around specific figures, revealing inconsistencies in candidate quality or lack thereof.
The current SDP revolves primarily around two significant personalities: Paul Tambyah, the President, and Chee Soon Juan, the Secretary-General. Other candidates within the SDP have thus far lacked notable recognition or calibre.
The spotlight on the SDP is shaped largely by the personal vendetta between Chee and the PAP, rather than by its policies—a missed opportunity for the SDP to debate their policies more thoroughly, as the focus remained primarily on Chee and his shenanigans.
Chee still preferring civil disobedience than constructive dialogue
Just recently, under the direction of Chee Soon Juan, the SDP released a statement denouncing the government’s decision to levy charges against activists who were charged in court on June 27 for public order offences.
(Update on 29th June 2024: According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the SDP’s post made false statements.)
The activists, Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, 25, Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, 29, and Annamalai Kokila Parvathi, 35, had purportedly organised a procession to show their support for the Palestinian cause, including soliciting attendance online.
While the activists’ cause and the government’s response are debatable, Chee’s reaction once again calls for public order civil disobedience.
The situation could have been an opportunity for Chee to advocate for a more civilised and strategic approach to activism, focusing on constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
By continuing to promote a confrontational stance, Chee not only risks further alienating potential supporters but also misses the chance to elevate the SDP’s political discourse to a more mature and effective level.
Chee Soon Juan – Political martyr or a calcified fat that needs to be trimmed?
The SDP under Chee Soon Juan has struggled to make significant electoral gains, largely due to his confrontational style. For over three decades, Chee’s approach has failed to win over voters.
In contrast, the PAP has transitioned from Goh Chok Tong to Lee Hsien Loong, and now to Lawrence Wong, while the WP moved from J.B. Jeyaretnam to Low Thia Khiang, and now to Pritam Singh. These parties have adapted to changing times, but Chee has refused to pass the baton or rethink his strategy, leaving the SDP stuck in the same rut.
Dr Chee’s continued refusal to step down may hinder the party’s ability to attract fresh talent and ideas, and stifling innovation and growth within the party.
A more collaborative approach and fresh leadership could unlock the SDP’s potential but Chee’s ego and stubbornness have left the SDP stagnant.
Perhaps it’s time for the baton to be passed to Paul Tambyah?
