MR GERALD Giam's letter on Wednesday ("What makes a democracy")
was an important reinforcement of why Singapore has become what it
is today.
A large part of Singapore's success is because we have been
blessed with a transparent and competent leadership that has led
our society to prosperity.
Many will point to the fact that the ruling People's Action
Party has won every election since independence with crushing
majorities. Many would also point out that Singapore's opposition
is virtually non-existent. However, rather than detracting from
Singapore's democratic credentials, the ruling party's continued
success at the polls strengthens it.
Say what you like about the PAP, but as a political party and a
government, it has built a system to keep in touch with the ground.
Its grassroots machinery is extensive and it has provided feedback
channels. The system is not perfect, but it does work.
Just take a look at the Prime Minister's National Day Rally
Speech, where he made the point that "citizens come first". Why did
he devote a good portion of the speech to immigration? Because one
of the main issues that Singaporeans have been complaining about is
the influx of foreigners.
The Government is aware of the public's opinion and acts to
contain it before Election Day. Despite its consistent success at
the polls, the PAP is very aware that it can be voted out of office
if it fails to address the needs of the public. So the Government
ensures that voters are taken care of, and so it returns to
power.
Tang Li
