Singapore to Hold General Election on May 3; Parliament Dissolved Ahead of First Vote Under PM Lawrence Wong
Singapore will hold its next general election on May 3, with Nomination Day set for April 23, the Elections Department announced on Tuesday.
Singapore, April 15 — Singapore will hold its next general election on May 3, with Nomination Day set for April 23, the Elections Department announced on Tuesday. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam officially dissolved Parliament, triggering the lead-up to the country’s 14th general election since independence.
This will be Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s first electoral test since taking over the leadership reins in May from Lee Hsien Loong, who stepped down after leading the country for two decades.
Following Nomination Day, candidates will engage in nine days of campaigning, followed by a “cooling-off day” before citizens head to the polls. All 97 parliamentary seats are expected to be contested, with the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) likely to face challenges across the board, according to local media outlet CNA.
Key Election Issues
The upcoming vote is set against a backdrop of growing economic anxiety, with voters expressing concerns over the rising cost of living, employment stability, and job creation. A January survey cited by CNA showed these as the top priorities for the electorate.
The PAP has been in power since Singapore’s independence in 1965, maintaining a strong grip on the nation’s politics. Despite this, the party faces increasing scrutiny as Singaporeans navigate global uncertainties and domestic economic pressures.
Economic and Global Context
The election also comes amid heightened global economic volatility, including U.S. protectionist policies under President Donald Trump. In a ministerial statement on April 8, PM Wong criticized recent U.S. tariff decisions, stating:
“We are very disappointed by the U.S. move, especially considering the deep and longstanding friendship between our two countries.”
Domestically, Singapore’s economic signals are softening. The government eased monetary policy for the second consecutive time on Monday, as the country braces for potential zero growth in 2025. The economy expanded by a modest 3.8% in Q1, falling short of expectations.
With a new leader at the helm and global headwinds intensifying, Singapore’s May 3 general election could serve as a pivotal moment for the city-state — one that will not only test Lawrence Wong’s leadership but also signal how Singaporeans view the future amid growing challenges.
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