PAP’s role since 1965

From a Western perspective, governmental system of Singapore does not meet the
criteria of full civil liberties and competitive choices of leaders. But from a culturalist Chinese
perspective, government’s paternalistic nature is appropriate, law and order as well as
economic achievement without relying on oppression. In Singapore, the critical factor in politics
is the technocratic power of the elite. Singapore is an electoral authoritarian, soft authoritarian
regime and dominant party authoritarianism (PAP) type of regime as a soft authoritarian
regime, PAP party and state became virtually merged like Vietnam and practice “Myth of
Meritocracy”. It is a state led development and executive branch has always played an
important role in investment decisions.

People’s action party (PAP) is the dominant political party in Singapore and has played a
crucial role in the country’s politics since its independence in 1965. PAP’s rise and dominance is
based on Lee Kuan Yew’s skillful consolidation of power. The objectives of PAP are to seek for
the independence of Singapore through merger with the federation of Malaya, to set up a
democratic socialist government, to create a multi-ethic society and to establish a fair and just
society.

The two-principal goal of PAP are the political stability and economic prosperity. There
are three aspects that helped the PAP to turn into a strong, dominant party. First, the extension
of its network of control, second the use of legal instruments to marginalize political opposition
and the third is an ideology of survival to justify its dominance and to promote economic
development. PAP has a long history of strong leadership, with prominent figures like Lee Kuan
Yew and his successors, who have been able to effectively govern the country. PAP has
demonstrated its ability to deliver economic development, social stability and efficient public
services which has earned it the trust and support of many Singaporeans.

PAP has benefited form a weak opposition presence in Singapore’s political landscape
due to the overwhelming influence of PAP in the country. According to 2015 data, there are 43
opposition political parties including prominent party PAP. Although these parties are present
and active, none has been able to provide a serious challenge to the PAP as the opposition
parities pale in comparison. There are four reasons why opposition parties are weak and
ineffective. First, they are weak organizationally, secondly, they do not have any rigorous
selection system because of the lack of professionals and third, no providing a creditable
alternative programme to compete with the PAP government’s comprehensive array of policies.
Finally, introduction of the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) has adversely affected the
opposition political parties. So, Singapore politics have been dominated by effectively a single
party state (PAP) since 1959 general election under British supervision.
 PAP has built a strong party machinery and grassroots network, which extends into
various sectors of society. It has established community organizations such as the People’s
Association which engage residents and provide them with social services and support. Party’s
grassroots network helps to maintain close ties with the community address local concerns and
mobilize support during elections. PAP has implemented policies that address key concerns such
as housing, healthcare, education and transportation. The role of PAP are the leadership and
stability, economic development, social policies, adaptability and pragmatism, dominance in
government and authoritarian governance.

Leadership and stability: PAP is known for providing political stability and effective governance.
It has been led by prominent figures such as Lee Kwuan Yew, Goh Chok Tong and Lee Hsien
Loong, who have contributed significantly to the country’s development.

Economic development: PAP is associated with Singapore’s rapid economic development and
transformation from a third-world to a first-word nation. Its policies have been focused on
economic growth, industrialization and creating a business-friendly environment.

Social policies: PAP has implemented various social policies aimed at improving the standard of
living, healthcare, and education in Singapore. These policies often emphasize self-reliance,
meritocracy and a strong emphasis on education.

Adaptability and pragmatism: PAP has demonstrated adaptability and pragmatism in its
policies, adjusting to changing global and regional circumstances. It has been willing to revise its
strategies to address emerging challenges.

Dominance in government: PAP has been the ruling party since the country gained
independence in 1965. It has consistently won the majority of seats in parliamentary elections.

Authoritarian governance: The PAP has been criticized for its authoritarian style of governance,
with restrictions on political dissent and freedom of the press.

Moreover, PAP dominates all political, economic and military. In politics, it never
relinquishes its parliamentary dominance. And PAP prevent the advent of any possible veto
actor. Government Investment Corporation (GCI) invests primarily in foreign countries. Military
has strong ties to the PAP and promoted a growing number of politicians with military
background. Because of the continuing dominance of PAP in the administration of Singapore, it
is accused as a state with the authoritarian rule. To many Singaporeans, the PAP is indispensable
for continuing the extraordinary economic development and political stability since
independence. As Singapore continues to evolve in a rapidly changing world, PAP's leadership
will be essential in guiding the country towards continued success and resilience.