Harpreet Singh Nehal, a prominent Senior Counsel in Singapore, has emerged as a significant figure within the Workers’ Party (WP), drawing considerable attention in the lead-up to the next General Election.
Since August 2023, Singh has been actively involved in community outreach activities with the WP, notably participating in walkabouts in Marine Parade alongside other party members such as Nathaniel Koh and Fadli Fawzi.
His grassroots activities have sparked speculation about his potential candidacy in the upcoming elections, which must be called by November 2025.
The WP has historically been cautious in announcing candidates, often waiting until closer to the election to make formal declarations. This strategy allows the party to gauge public reaction and adjust its approach accordingly.
Career and educational background
Singh’s legal career is distinguished by his role as a co-managing partner at Audent Chambers LLC, where he specialises in international arbitration and complex commercial litigation.
His academic credentials include degrees from the National University of Singapore and Harvard Law School.
Singh was appointed as a Senior Counsel in 2007.
Involvement in sociopolitical work
Singh has been vocal about several critical issues facing Singapore.
He has publicly questioned the decision of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) not to prosecute senior management members of Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd in a high-profile bribery case.
Additionally, Singh has commented on alleged violations of the Ministerial Code of Conduct by two ministers concerning their property leases on Ridout Road.
Notably, he was the Senior Counsel engaged by LGBT activist Bryan Choong, who in 2022 mounted a challenge to repeal Section 377A of the Constitution, which criminalised sex between men.
He has penned commentaries advocating for a stronger opposition in Parliament, arguing that a more diverse political landscape could foster new ideas and prevent systemic decay from prolonged one-party dominance.
He has also commentate on the high-profile case of former domestic worker Parti Liyani and the policies concerning migrant workers’ dormitories during the COVID-19 pandemic.
WP’s trump card
Singh’s involvement with the WP has been met with enthusiasm from party supporters and the public.
His presence in the party’s activities, often clad in the WP’s signature light blue polo shirt, has led to him being dubbed the party’s “trump card” by observers and media outlets.
Online platforms, including Reddit, have seen users describe Singh as a “big fish” and a “shark,” indicating the high regard in which he is held and the potential influence he could wield within the party.
Potential Impact on the Workers’ Party
Singh’s involvement with the WP could significantly impact the party’s strategy and performance in future elections.
Analysts suggest that Singh’s entry into politics could attract a new demographic of voters who are looking for a credible opposition to the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP).
The WP has faced challenges in recent years, including the resignation of high-profile members like Leon Perera and Nicole Seah.
Singh’s entry into the party could help fill this void and strengthen the WP’s position as a viable alternative to the ruling party.
The WP’s ability to attract younger voters, who are often more open to political pluralism and change, could significantly impact the party’s performance in the upcoming General Election.
Singh’s ability to contribute to policy debates and propose innovative solutions could enhance the WP’s appeal to voters who are looking for a credible alternative to the PAP.
