THE observations made by Mr Chong Zi Liang ("Too little time to
know new candidates"; last Saturday) are spot-on: Given the sheer
number of new candidates introduced and the limited time for
introductory sessions and campaigning, it is near-impossible for
voters to comprehend and assess these individuals
independently.
The situation is compounded by the fact that a majority of
constituents will know which party or politician is contesting in
their constituencies only on Nomination Day. Therefore, it is
difficult for them to be well acquainted with their representatives
in terms of weighing their credentials, understanding their policy
positions and so on. Does it then come as a surprise that
Singaporeans are flocking to the Internet to find out more about
the backgrounds of the political candidates introduced so far?
Voting along party lines may not be absolutely detrimental, but
it does compromise the individuality of the election hopefuls, and
might grant a free pass to weaker candidates who might be
comparatively weaker in quality or administrative efficiency.
There are a number of ways new candidates can - and should -
proactively reach out to their voters. First, even though the
upcoming general election has been dubbed the "Social Media
Election", the online methods of engagement by the newcomers have
been pedantic, conservative and banal. Voters are not interested in
superficial updates such as "having my cup of coffee" or "at Block
123 now"; instead, Singaporeans are intrigued to find out about
their opinions on socio-economic concerns, as well as possible
policy recommendations to improve the status quo.
Correspondingly, through online commentaries or spontaneous
letters to the newspapers and local media, they can expound upon
their perspectives on national concerns. These hands-on modes of
communication would cement their abilities as future
parliamentarians, and convince educated voters of their
on-the-ground sensitivities and engagement.
Third, walkabouts should be initiated way before candidates are
officially announced, and candidates should simultaneously be given
the opportunity to work on grassroots activities. This would allow
the individual to be more cognisant of bread-and-butter concerns in
the neighbourhoods. Under such circumstances - regardless of when
the candidates are formally introduced, or when election dates are
announced - voters would be familiar with the faces that have been
present in their communities consistently.
New political candidates cannot expect media and public
attention to be served to them on a silver platter. If they choose
to be silent candidates or meek "yes-men", then they might have to
pay the price come Polling Day.
Kwan Jin Yao
