Singapore Democrats Prepare for Elections

Will Singapore follow Malaysia’s lead in voting out a ruling party which has been in power since independence?

That day will surely come, and the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) wants to be prepared when it happens.  It is for this reason that the party held a family retreat in scenic Desaru Coast, Malaysia last 19-21 April 2019.  The retreat also provided an opportunity for party members and their families to bond over karaoke nights, barbeque dinners, and team sports competitions.

Amidst the fun and the laughter, serious political and party matters were discussed too, especially since Singapore will have general elections next year.  Four workshop sessions tackled topics like: Media Relations and Party Brand Building; Secrets to a Successful Campaign; How to Win Votes; and Whither the Singapore Opposition.

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), which counts SDP as one of its full members, was represented in the retreat by Democratic Party of Hong Kong’s Emily Lau, and by its executive director, Lito Arlegue.  They spoke on secrets to a successful campaign, drawing from the experiences of CALD member-parties which had their share of successes and defeats in the polls.

Lau, who has fought and won all seven Legislative Council elections she contested, said: “In order to win an election, we must know what the voters want and should never blame them for not choosing us.”  She added that political parties should take time to talk to ordinary people to find out what they like and dislike about the parties and what the parties can do for them.  This, she hinted, is the very essence of democracy.

“Democratic transition may take years, even decades, and it is important for opposition parties and democracy activists not to waver in their campaign so that they would be ready when it finally happens”, said Arlegue. “When you feel tired, rest and let others take the cause.  When you feel reinvigorated, take the cudgels again so others can rest.  We must prepare for the long haul by taking care of each other.”

SDP, it appears, is prepared for the long haul.  As a competent, constructive and compassionate opposition, it pledges to be there when the dawn of democracy breaks in Singapore.