Part of his advice revolves around "look[ing] at PAP's record before voting" (The Straights Times, February 27, 2006).

Intelligent political commentary aside (like you're gonna get that here), it seems to me that for a country-state with a single-party rule since its independence, a citizenry which votes purely by "PAP's record" solely will ensure that PAP remains in power for the foreseeable future. At least until it somehow manages to unravel its performance for the last 40 odd years, something which I think will take a remarkable lack of ability on the part of the ruling party to achieve within a few years.

String together what Straits Times has reported, the message I get is:

a) Contest is good as it keeps us on our toes. Caveat: The Others must lose
b) Think of what PAP has done
c) Vote for PAP, keep your jobs, your house and let your children have a future
d) PAP stands for Singaporeans (alternatively, PAP is Singapore)
e) More "freebies" when nearing election period

Without a credible and strong opposition, probably all points are largely valid (point (e) is meant to be a joke). However, I must say that (c) reminds me of what a political animal will say. Rather heavy-handed and over the top. Had it been issued by the WP or any other opposition party, it will no doubt invite the scorn of PAP, which will then proceed to fling (b) at the wayward opposition party. I can probably spy the Pygmalion effect at work somewhere.

Filed under: News, Singapore