Lee Hsien Loong
- M.R Mishra
- May 15, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: May 17, 2024
After serving for two decades, as the Prime Minister of Singapore Mr. Lee will formally pass on his duties to Lawrence Wong, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, on Wednesday night.
Since gaining independence in 1965, Singapore has been led by only three prime ministers, all affiliated with the ruling People's Action Party (PAP).
The first was Mr. Lee's father, Lee Kuan Yew, widely acknowledged as the architect of modern Singapore, who governed for 25 years.
Observers view this transition as a significant shift in Singapore's political landscape, marking a departure from the dominance of the Lee family, although Mr. Lee will continue to serve in the cabinet as a senior minister.
In his final interview as Prime Minister over the weekend, he expressed gratitude to Singaporeans for their unwavering support.
"I didn't aim to outpace others; rather, I endeavored to rally everyone to move forward together," he remarked. "And I believe we achieved some measure of success."
He noted that he pursued his own path, distinct from his father and predecessor Goh Chok Tong.
Mr. Lee entered politics in 1984 as a backbencher during his father's tenure, gradually ascending under the leadership of Singapore's second Prime Minister, Mr. Goh, before assuming office in 2004.
The initial years of his political career were marked by intense scrutiny, with critics alleging nepotism and the formation of a political dynasty, accusations vehemently refuted by the Lees. Privately, some Singaporeans quipped about "fami-Lee politics" and the trio of "father, son, and the holy Goh."
However, over his two decades at the helm, Mr. Lee left an indelible mark.
Under his stewardship, Singapore's economy flourished and diversified, propelling the island nation into a global financial hub and premier tourist destination. Its GDP per capita more than doubled over the past 20 years. Mr. Lee's administration is also credited with effectively navigating the country through various economic downturns, including the global financial crisis and the Covid pandemic.
Today, the world is not flat. Today, the great powers are at odds with one another. The Chinese, China is playing a much more dominant role; it has become very much stronger in the last 20 years and more prosperous.
There are tremendous tensions which have arisen - Russia with the US, China and US, China and EU too. And we are dealing with a very troubled world. Confidence and free trade have also been shaken. First, they talk about fair trade. That means I do not want to be so free. Then, they talk about national security considerations, which are important.
Resilience – what if you become hostile to me? What if there is Covid? That is important too. Then they talk about reshoring; bringing it back home. Do it at home. But that sounds protectionist. And they talk about friend shoring; I will do business with friends. Now, who is my friend? So, it is a very troubled external environment and we are sailing into it.
Who will take over the reign?
Lawrence Wong , The 51-year-old entered politics in 2011 after being elected as a Member of Parliament in West Coast GRC. He was given his first political office two weeks after the election – as Minister of State for education and defence.
Refrence
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/interactives/pm-lee-hsien-loong-career-achievements-lookback-4335141
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