Workers’ Party MP argues that appointing a defeated candidate undermines democratic principles and creates an unfair advantage for the ruling party.
SINGAPORE: Workers’ Party MP Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap (Aljunied GRC) raised concerns in Parliament on Wednesday (April 19) about the lack of a level playing field in Singapore’s grassroots politics, specifically criticizing the appointment of losing candidates as grassroots advisors in opposition-held constituencies.
In his speech, Mr. Manap emphasized that fairness in politics is crucial, and this includes ensuring that the position of constituency advisor is allocated regardless of political affiliation. “Members of Parliament who are not from the ruling party need to put in more effort at the grassroots level to meet the needs of our constituents. We have to do so because we do not have access to the resources of the People’s Association,” he explained. MPs who represent opposition wards often find themselves sidelined by the People’s Association (PA) when it comes to grassroots appointments.
He pointed out that in constituencies not controlled by the ruling party, the losing candidate from the ruling party is often appointed as the grassroots advisor, despite having been rejected by voters during the elections. This practice, he argued, contradicts Singapore’s commitment to creating a democratic society based on justice and equality.
Mr. Manap, who has served in Aljunied GRC for nearly 13 years, shared an example from his constituency. Residents often comment on how the ruling party appears to be organizing more community events than the Workers’ Party, with the PAP grassroots advisor often being the guest of honor or the host at these events. Many residents associate these events with the PAP, even though they are organized by the Residents’ Committee or held at the community club.
Additionally, Mr. Manap criticized the role of the PAP grassroots advisor in distributing Edusave awards in opposition-held wards, a practice that his fellow WP MP Jamus Lim (Sengkang GRC) has also spoken out against. “While the funds from the PA are undeniably for the benefit of the residents, it creates the impression that the events organized by the PA are really just events of the PAP,” Mr. Manap added, highlighting how the current system fosters an unfair political advantage.
Mr. Manap’s comments underscore ongoing concerns about the perceived politicization of grassroots organizations and their impact on political equality in Singapore.
