The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD) commends the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) for its steadfast commitment to democracy and human rights in the recently concluded May 3 elections. Although the SDP was not successful in winning a seat in Parliament, its campaign represents a significant and courageous effort to challenge an entrenched political system that has long restricted pluralism and consolidated power for six decades under the People’s Action Party (PAP).
Running under a principled social liberal agenda, the SDP articulated a bold and people- centered platform that resonated with many Singaporeans who yearn for a more equitable and inclusive society. Among its key proposals were the reduction of consumption taxes with exemptions for essential goods such as basic food items; the introduction of a non-open market public housing model that excludes land cost and restricts resale to the government to ensure affordability; and the establishment of a single-payer universal national health insurance system managed by a central government fund to provide accessible healthcare for all.
These policy positions reflect the SDP’s unwavering commitment to social justice, transparency, and the protection of human rights. At a time when political space remains limited and dissent is often marginalized, the SDP’s participation in the electoral process exemplifies both courage and democratic integrity.
CALD acknowledges the challenges faced by opposition forces in Singapore’s political landscape and affirms our solidarity with the SDP and its vision for a freer and more democratic Singapore.
Mardi Seng, Chairperson of CALD and Senator of the Kingdom of Cambodia said, “The road to reform is never easy, particularly when up against a powerful establishment with decades of institutional dominance. Yet, the SDP’s resolve, clarity of purpose, and principled leadership offer hope and inspiration—not only to Singaporeans, but to liberal democrats across Asia.”
CALD is confident that the Singapore Democratic Party, a CALD member-party that served as its Chair from 2008-2010, will continue to forge ahead with resilience, continuing its vital role as the voice of dissent and the defender of democratic values. In standing firm for freedom, human rights, rule of law, and democratic accountability, the SDP remains a beacon for all who believe in a fairer, more open society.
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Categorised in: Statements
This post was written by CALD
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