include("cmp.php");
Featured Articles

Podcasts didn't decide GE2025Podcasts didn't decide GE2025 I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage with politics (May 9). The 2025 General Election has several features/characteristics that deserve our attention, discussion and reflection: In today era, technological revolution, innovation and advancement...

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAPGE2025: Stunning victory for PAP I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher national vote share in PM Wong's first electoral test” (May 4). GE2025 has clearly delivered the following key messages/notes from the vast majority of voters: The Workers’ Party (WP) has done a fantastic good...

This is not a game of cardsThis is not a game of cards I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors games on nominations day, the shuffling of the DPM from a seat he had openly been declared to be defending, and other ministers shuffling constituencies leaves one feeling the PAP thinks it is playing a game of cards. Constituency...

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans? I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?” - (April 14), and “The Straits Times’ report, “GE2025: Singaporeans will go to the polls on May 3, Nomination Day on April 23” (April 15), and The Online Citizen GE2025 report,...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝... Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification for the highest salaries in the world. Let’s look at its more recent track record. Large numbers of NRIC numbers were recently unmasked, leaving Singaporeans exposed to identity theft, fraud, abuse and scams....

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit TimahGE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make way for Singapore Democratic Party” (April 10), “More opposition 'star catches' are emerging. Is Singapore's political scene maturing?” (April 10) and “PSP says government response to Trump tariffs 'overblown',...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politicsGE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited... I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics” (Mar 28). It is not surprised to notice that in recent weeks, two NMPs and top ministry officials have resigned, fuelling speculation they could be fielded as potential candidates for the ruling People's Action...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025 I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar 25). As Singapore’s General Election is due to be held within this year, the following factors will more or less influence the election situation this year: A)The general mentality of voters Voters are generally...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US supportHow the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning... I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US support” (Mar 4), “Lessons from the Trump-Zelenskyy meltdown- for friends and foes” (Mar 1) and “Will Trump tariffs push China to change economic tack?” (Mar 3). Foremost, we need to recognise the reality...

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum WageSingapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage: National Service Should Not Come at the Expense of Opportunity Costs Singapore’s National Service (NS) has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s defense, requiring young men to dedicate two years of their lives to military, civil defense, or police service. While...

Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoningTrump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of... I refer to the CNA’s Commentaries, “Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoning” (Feb 20) and “Ukraine can survive with the ‘least worst’ peace” (Feb 22). Now, In the eyes of European Union, they have lost trust and confidence in the United States, it is solely due to the flip flop...

From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiringFrom Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are... I refer to the CNA’s Commentary, “From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiring” (Jan 31). Would it be practical, useful and effective for the United States to continually pursue an aggressive containment strategy to hobble China’s tech push? Undoubtedly, the answer is obviously not. There...

Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picksDon't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: “Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks” (Nov 25), and “'No one will win a trade war’, China says after Trump tariff threat” (Nov 26). As everyone knows, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will return to power on January 20, 2025. Trump has dismissed...

Putin escalates Ukraine warPutin escalates Ukraine war I refer to The CNA’s Commentary: “Putin escalates Ukraine war by a step, not a leap, with missile experiment” (Nov 23). Foremost, Zelenskyi’s intention to join Nato has greatly threatened the security and survival of Russia. Hence, Zelenskyy has offended Putin and Putin has no choice but to launch a war with...

Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries?Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries? I refer to The TR-Emeritus opinion article, “Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries” (June 14) by Mr Yoong Siew Wah. It has always been a controversial topic which concerns about our top political leaders who receive their salaries that are many times higher than those foreign political leaders. Our...

Due to the nature of the news and contents appearing on TR Emeritus, we are rating the website for 'above 18' only.
Editorials
Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

On the evening of May 8, Xi’an, the capital city of China’s Shaanxi Province, was struck by a powerful...
Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

A total of four opposition parties, the Singapore United Party (SUP), People's Power Party (PPP), People’s...
Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Northern China was hit by an extreme weather event on Thursday as a massive cold front swept south, colliding...
Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

On April 30, northern China was struck by an extreme weather event as a massive cold vortex surged southward,...
TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

Please be informed that TR Emeritus (TRE) will shut down its comment function site-wide at 0000 hours...
Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Beijing’s 22 million residents were asked to stay indoors on Saturday, as powerful winds swept across...
China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay, causing...
Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread panic...
Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Since March 24, 2025, northern China has been battling extreme weather as a massive sandstorm swept through...
Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

An unexpected and severe hailstorm struck multiple cities in Guangdong and Fujian between March 3 and...
Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

On March 2, 2025, extreme weather struck multiple regions in China, with parts of Henan province experiencing...
Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Wishing all our Chinese readers:     Team@TR Emeritus  
Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

As the Chinese New Year approaches, millions of people across the country are making their annual journey...
The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is making headlines as cases surge, especially among children and vulnerable...
4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

On the evening of January 10, 2025, Linfen City in Shanxi Province was struck by an earthquake. The tremor,...
7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has hit Tibet, in the region of Shigatse, which is near the border with Nepal. According...
Outbreak of mystery virus in China

Outbreak of mystery virus in China

China is r eportedly facing a new health crisis as the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak rapidly...
Unknown Virus Rampages in China; Hospitals Utterly...

Unknown Virus Rampages in China; Hospitals Utterly...

A blogger in China has shared a video, claiming that this isn’t China’s Spring Festival travel rush;...
Opinions
The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The first part of the threes is about the when, the how and the why? And it is about his retirement...
我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

新加坡政府近日宣布将采购两艘额外的“无畏级”潜艇,引发了一个重要问题:我们的国防力量,到底需要多强? 毫无疑问,一个强大且可信的军队对于保障国家主权与威慑潜在威胁是不可或缺的。新加坡地处战略要冲,国土面积有限,因此需要一支现代化的武装部队。然而,当我们对比邻国——马来西亚拥有两艘潜艇、印尼正逐步扩展至十二艘——新加坡在水下战力上已处于领先地位。这不禁让人质疑,我们是否正引领着一场无声的区域军备竞赛? 问题在于:当威慑的需求被满足后,继续扩军是否已经超出必要? 一艘“无畏级”潜艇的估价超过十亿新元,还不包括长期的运营与维护成本。这两艘新潜艇的资金,若能转用于迫切的民生需求,例如医疗保健、老龄化支援、教育及弱势群体扶助,或许对社会的整体韧性更具意义。 政府一再强调国防开支是经过审慎规划的,但当生活成本日益上升,政府却仍需将消费税(Gst)提高至9%甚至更多,这种矛盾不禁令人困惑。如果某些战略性国防项目能够延后或循序推进,节省下来的资源是否可以用于社会发展呢? “全面防卫”不仅仅是硬件实力,更是要赢得人民的心与信任。让人民感到安心、有保障、受到重视,这种安全感无法靠潜艇来衡量,而是通过每一位国人的生活实感体现出来。 这并非是在呼吁削弱我们的国防,而是呼吁我们重新思考国家的优先事项。当我们继续推进军事现代化的同时,也不要忽视同样重要的任务——巩固社会契约、增强国民凝聚力。   Cwc-Ai  
Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

There is a rampant rumor going around that claims Egypt has ordered 48 J10C with a price tag of USD$25B...
2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025年大选结果无可争议,政府再次赢得了强有力的授权,稳固了其在新加坡政治格局中的主导地位。尽管选举结果并不令人意外,但胜利的过程却并非没有争议和复杂性。 值得注意的是,选区划分的变化在本次选战中发挥了重要作用。陈清木医生与徐顺全医生等资深反对派人物,因选区重划而受到显著影响——传统支持基础被分割或并入他区,无疑左右了某些关键选区的最终结果。虽然选区调整在新加坡选举历史上并不罕见,但其公平性与透明度仍持续引发讨论。 工人党虽稳守东北区的传统堡垒,但未能在本届大选中攻下新的选区。不过,该党仍获得两个非选区议员(Ncmp)席位,虽属安慰性质,却在象征意义上维持了国会内多元声音的存在。 更值得关注的是,本届大选所处的人口背景正经历剧烈变化。新加坡人口从2000年的约300万增长至2025年的超过500万。考虑到多年来出生率持续偏低,这一增长几乎可以肯定主要归因于移民流入,尤其可能在华人群体中增长显著。这一趋势对国家的社会结构和政治生态产生了深远影响。 展望2030年大选,各政党不仅要面对一如既往的选区调整与突发的全球事件,更需正视一个不断演变的社会结构。随着越来越多新移民成为国民,选民构成日益多元,政党在政策制定与信息传递上必须更具包容性与前瞻性。他们必须同时争取老一代公民与新加坡新公民的认同,回应共同关切,并跨越代际与文化差异的鸿沟。 在新加坡持续向前迈进的过程中,其政治也必须与时俱进——反映日益多元的人口现实,同时坚守国家的核心价值观:团结、韧性与务实。 Cwc-Ai
A jaw-dropping election

A jaw-dropping election

This is a jaw-dropping election. For the opposition. SDP’s Dr Chee and PSP’s Leong were deeply disappointed....
The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

Our party suffered great losses and I personally have suffered the greatest hit. But these personal losses...
A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

Minister Ong Ye Kung’s recent assertion that a “co-driver” bears no responsibility if a car crashes...
There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing. At least in PAP’s books. And one of the costs is a policy of priority. That...
Hougang Belongs to the People

Hougang Belongs to the People

Thank You for the Reminder, Mr Marshall Lim. It is with no small measure of amusement that one reads...
Its all about trust

Its all about trust

Dr Ng Eng Hen from PAP has pointed out the most important key point about this General Elections, it...
Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

The government's repeated assertion that it is "easy for the opposition to ask the government to give...
Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC is without question one of the most hotly watched, followed and contested constituency in...
Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Singaporeans should pause and reflect on the recent remark by PAP candidate David Neo, who said that...
Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

The Singapore government’s blunt assertion that the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP)’s proposals...
Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

In a political contest, expect the exchange of barbs. And we do not lack any of it in the rallies held...
Don't Be Swayed by the Noise—Think Critically Before...

Don't Be Swayed by the Noise—Think Critically Before...

In recent weeks, the political buzz in Singapore has reached a new high. Massive crowds at opposition...
We vote whoever is deserving of our vote

We vote whoever is deserving of our vote

I am surprised that Lee Hsien Loong chose to remind us of the 1997 shameful episode when he, his father...
The Case for a Diverse and Balanced Parliament

The Case for a Diverse and Balanced Parliament

The Singapore government has recently stated that "Good government needs good people" and cautioned against...
Letters
Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage...
GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher...
Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs...
GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make...
GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics”...
More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar...
How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning...
Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage: National Service Should Not Come at the Expense of Opportunity...
Snippets
Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s sports industry is on the cusp of greatness, leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure and...
What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

As work-life balance remains a constant talking point in the fast-paced city-state of Singapore, residents...
10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

Singaporeans can't get enough of their phones these days, spending tons of time battling opponents, building...
Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Planning a tropical escape from Malaysia to Thailand? The journey from Langkawi to Koh Lipe offers a...
This is not a game of cards

This is not a game of cards

I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors...
𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification...
The sleep science revolution in elite sports

The sleep science revolution in elite sports

Professional sports have entered a new era where recovery science directly impacts performance outcomes....
Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

In today's world, online sports betting has become not only a popular form of entertainment but also...
Sticky & Recent Articles

Temasek Review sets up “Institute” section as precursor to its independent online think-tank

Temasek Review sets up “Institute” section as precursor to its independent online think-tank

From our Correspondent The Temasek Review has set up an "Institute" section to house articles and research papers written by academics on Singapore from all over the world. It will serve as a precursor to our independent think-tank - The Temasek Strategy Institute which will be set up after the promulgation of our company. The "Institute" section will be helmed by our regular columnist Mr Abdul Gafoor, a Singaporean and an academic himself based in the United Kingdom. For a start, we will collate and publish extracts and summaries of theses and books written by local and overseas scholars which are seldom heard about in Singapore. Temasek Review will invite readers who have read them to post their comments on our site or write us a book review to facilitate active discussion and debate among one another. We count among our readers some prominent professors and academics and it will be an eye-opener for us to hear and learn from their expert opinions. There are no independent think-tanks in Singapore. All academic institutions are under the firm control of the ruling party. Academics dare not deviate from the official view-points out of fear of losing their rice-bowls. Temasek Review welcome all researchers, academics and intellectuals to contribute their frank views and analyses of Singapore's politics, society and economics here. With the incorporation of our new media company next year, this will serve as a platform for us to set up an independent online think-tank which will be funded entirely from the proceeds of the company. Please feel free to offer ideas and suggestions on how we can improve and build on this initiative. We can be contacted at [email protected]  Read More →

人民行动党在新加坡政治体制中的主导地位

人民行动党在新加坡政治体制中的主导地位

作者: 中共中央党校中青班 来源: 学习时报(中国) 新加坡人民行动党成立于1954年。1959年在国会选举中获胜上台执政,并在此后的历次大选中获胜而长期执政,一直是新加坡的执政党。在“党无处可见,无处不在”的独特党政关系下,人民行动党在新加坡的政治体制中始终居于主导地位。并不断通过制定宪制、建立制度巩固和完善自己的执政地位。 人民行动党及其独特的党政关系 党的最高领导人是秘书长。党的组织架构只有中央执行委员会和支部执行委员会两级。中央执行委员会由21人组成,每两年由党员大会改选一次。其中10人由上一 届中央执行委员会提名,现任国会议员推荐6人,再由支部和干部党员各推荐若干人,进行选举。人民行动党在全国范围按照国会选举划分的选区设立支部执行委员会,全国84个选区就有84个支部,负责人为主席,由中央任命。支部执行委员会成员由支部主席提名报中央执行委员会批准。 人民行动党的党员人数从不公布。主要分为普通党员和干部党员。普通党员在一定期限后,经多方考察,再由2名中央执行委员会委员推荐,最后由中央执行委员会批准方 可成为干部党员。干部党员约占党员总数的1%,他们是人民行动党的核心,往往是社会上有影响、在某个领域成就突出或为国家做出突出贡献的精英,也是人民行动党领导国家的执政团队成员。只有干部党员才能出席人民行动党的党员大会。党员大会(简称“党大会”)每年召开一次。 人民行动党的经费没有国家财政拨款,也不靠党费收入(党费每人每年只有7新元)。主要来源:一是该党当选的国会议员或总理、部长等高级官员,每月津贴或工资的10% 须上交党中央;二是“人民行动党社区基金”进行的募捐;三是由该基金开办的幼稚园的收入。长期以来,新加坡70%的儿童在人民行动党开办的幼稚园上学。人 民行动党规定,支部若办10间以上的幼稚园,其收入要上交中央。令考察团印象深刻的是,人民行动党总部位于新加坡普通居民聚居的组屋区内,而且是一幢长期 租用、设施简朴、基本上没有任何装饰的公共楼房。据接待我们的该党国会议员介绍,人民行动党执政30年来总部一直设立于此,这是按照李光耀关于党总部要“ 深藏不露”和“简陋、低调”的要求做的。 在执政党和国家机器的关系上,人民行动党奉行的原则是“党无处可见,无处不在”。在新加坡的国家机器架构里,见不到人民行动党的党徽、党旗,党员身份也不张扬。但实际上,掌握政府大权的、主持各部委大局的、身居国家机器要职的,均是人民行动 党党员。与我们进行对话的国会议员兼总理公署部长(相当于我国国务院秘书长)林瑞生就明确表示,宪法规定由国会多数党组阁,当然不能委任反对党议员当部长。除非执政党取得的国会议席低于半数,比如只有40%多,才考虑与反对党联合组阁。虽然接待或与我们座谈、对话的人民行动党总干事、国会议员或部长一再说他们实行的是“党政分开”,也不接受“党政合一”(意味“党等同国家”)的说法。但实际上,其党政关系是“内外合一又内外有别”。“内外合一”表现为国家机器的重要岗位全部由作为执政党的人民行动党党员所把持,不允许其他政党染指;“内外有别”则表现为该党党员在任何国家机关、法定机构甚至基层组织中都 不以党员身份出现,而以国家公职人员形象说话,不声明、更不张扬其党员身份。 选择和制定有利于执政党的国会选举制度 依据新加坡宪法,每届国会议员由全国选民每5年一人一票选出。取得多数议席的政党有权组阁,也就是执政。因此,人民行动党能否确保在每届国会选举即“大选”中获胜,成为其能否长期维持执政地位的关键。由于宪法规定国会选举制度由总理公署制定,人民行动党作为执政党就掌握了制定选举程序的选举委员会。因此可以通过对选举程序的规划与设计,使得选举有利于执政党长期保持选票多数的优势地位。 其中,最重要的选区划分就是根据有利于由执政党更多得票的原则来重新安排的。如果某一选区的反对党势力较大,选举委员会就会把这个选区分割为几个选区,或把其中一部分与其他选区合并,通过这种不断进行大幅度的选区划分与重新组合的办法,来分散反对党的选票资源。 又如,新加坡的选举制度把全国分为“单选区”与“集选区”。“单选区”中只有一个议席,各党各自提名一名候选人参加竞选。“集选区”是“集体代表选区”的简 称,其人口与幅员相当于几个单选区,议席数也是几个单选区议席的总和。从法律上看,集选区是为保障议员的种族平衡并对少数种族予以适当照顾而建立的一种特别制度。因为法律规定,“集选区”制下,在由至少3名候选人组成的竞选小组中,至少要有一人属于少数种族。在选举中,选民对竞选小组而不是对个人进行投票,获得最高票数的小组即全部当选为议员,不计算其中每个候选人的得票情况。“集选区”这种选举制度或选举办法对执政党无疑是极为有利的,因为选区范围越大,加之计票制度采取类似美国总统选举人制度的“通吃”办法,执政党获得简单多数从而使其推出的候选人在一个集选区全部当选的概率就越高。如果某一个反对党在人数较少的单选区内有可能获得简单多数的话,那么选举委员会就会把这个单选区并入到一个大的集选区内,反对党的得票数只会是少数,此时该反对党在大的集选区内获胜的机会就大为下降。 物色和确定执政团队的议员候选人遴选制度 人民行动党参加每届 国会选举的议员候选人名单,由中央执行委员会决定。实际是确定该党进入下届政府的执政团队。国会议员候选人即人民行动党执政团队的主要来源有两类:一是从总统奖学金培养的政府公务员、公职人员或社会上有地位、有影响的人士中,进行物色,做工作请他们加入人民行动党,作为议员候选人。二是从做基层、工会、社区工作的人士中进行物色。 值得注意的是,遴选这两类议员候选人的过程都不是“人才找党”,而是“党找人才”。就是由党做某位成功人士的工作,劝其入党再作为党推出的国会议员候选人参加大选。若物色的人是社会专业人士,须暂时停止其专业工作;如果是国家公务员,则须辞职。在大选前, 他们会作为人民行动党某个集选区的名单一员,参加大选。利用人民行动党在集选区的绝对优势将他们“送”入国会,使他们成为国会议员。李光耀指出:“要是完全听其自然,等着积极分子毛遂自荐加入我们的团队,我们根本不可能成功。”选用吴作栋就是很好的例子。吴作栋出任国会议员前,并没有加入人民行动党,也没 有协助人民行动党的基层工作,他专注于自己在海皇轮船公司的事业。当时任财政部长的韩瑞生邀请他加入人民行动党时,吴作栋感到十分震惊,他认为自己不适合从政。但最终在韩瑞生的劝说下,吴作栋还是决定加入人民行动党,出来为国家服务。我们在参访大巴窑集选区的议员接待选民会时,人民行动党国会议员和该选区支部主席杨莉明告诉我们,她在加入人民行动党以前,是取得总统奖学金在大学毕业后长期在政府工作的一名公务员。2005年人民行动党做她的工作而加入该党,并辞去政府工作担任全国职工总会职务。2006年她作为人民行动党推出的国会议员候选人,参加了这个集选区的大选并顺利当选。现在是国会“后排议员 ”,主要职业仍是工会领袖。 人民行动党明确党的任务和目标就是组织、动员全党赢取每届国会选举的胜利,确保党中央的执政团队全部当选。宪法规定,由取得国会多数议席的政党组阁,当选的人民行动党秘书长就由总统任命为总理,并由他从当选的该党其他80多位国会议员中委任多名议员进入内阁,担任政府要职。由于内阁成员只有22个职位,人民行动党的其他国会议员则作为“后排议员”,其中一些议员也会被总理提名报请总统委任为其他重要公 职,如法定机构负责人。 利用政权力量和执政党优势争取选票 人民行动党通过人民协会的地区网络来掌控所有 选区的票源。“人民协会”是新加坡政府管理地方事务的法定机构,辖下2000多个基层组织遍布84个选区。由于新加坡总理和总理公署部长分任人民协会的主席、副主席,他们也分别是人民行动党的秘书长和中央执行委员会委员,人民协会的地区网络就为人民行动党赢得每次大选的胜利,巩固长期执政地位,奠定了深厚的社会基础。人民行动党执政初期就建立了议员定期回自己的选区接待选民的制度。上世纪80年代中期以后,又建立了内阁成员定期访问选区的制度。李显龙当副总理时每周均会到宏道桥区接待选民,现在当总理太忙不能经常来,但每周也会委托官员做好接待选民工作。在议员每周一次接待选民的活动中,民众可就日常生活中的各种问题向议员提出诉求,能够当场回答和解决的问题就地解决,涉及政府各部门的由议员向这些部门反映,力求在最短时间内解决。对于那些有悖法律和政策 的问题,则由议员向民众做出具体解释,做好说服工作。对于有代表性而现有政策框架内无法解决的问题,则提请国会和政府进行审议,以制定更有效、更能符合民众利益的政策法令。 我们这次在新加坡,分别参访了人民行动党国会议员在三个集选区接待选民的活动。切身感受到,这一做法的制度 化、经常化和深入化,在很大程度上解决了党如何真实听取民意的问题,对执政党巩固和扩大票源极为有利。人民行动党当选的国会议员还以“选区顾问”的身份, 通过影响公民咨询委员会统领所在选区的基层架构。新加坡84个选区各自设立了一个公民咨询委员会,它是选区内最高的基层组织,负责策划和领导选区层次的基 层活动。公民咨询委员会的全部成员和各种委任的基层组织领导职务,都由担任其选区顾问的国会议员推荐,报人民协会任命。因此,人民行动党在所有选区的活动,实质上都是着眼于使人民行动党在下届大选中获得最多选票。一位在民众联络所担任领导职务的社区商界人士告诉我们,他也是经选区顾问推荐而获得委任的, 他所支持、赞助的社区活动都是按照这位选区顾问的要求进行的。至于上述活动是否对这位身为国会议员的选区顾问参加下次大选有利,他表示这是当然的,但这一 切“只能做不能说”。 人民行动党对每一个选区的国会议席都采取“每票必争、每席不让”的原则和策略,以保证其推出的执政团队全部 当选,从而巩固其执政地位。我们在访新期间,正值人民行动党11月11日召开每年一次的党员大会,总结2006年大选,并讨论如何强化党的基层力量以赢得 下一次大选。李显龙秘书长在这次党大会上提出:“选举会在2011年来临,我们知道,反对党也知道。行动党已养精蓄锐、严阵以待,并且依靠你们在阿裕尼选区(引注:2006年大选时,人民行动党在此选区以12.2%票差险胜反对党)所做的努力,也依靠党的政策和整个阵容的支持。”我们在与总理公署部长林瑞生对话时问他,反对党取得2006年大选中两个单选区的议席,是否人民行动党没有全力争夺而有意让出的?林表示,反对党在国会的议席已由宪法相关规定予以保障(指国会须设立最多3名“非选区议员”,由落选的反对党议员候选人中得票最多者出任;若反对党经由选举取得1个议席,“非选区议员”就减少1名,依此 类推),所以人民行动党无须在选举中再“让”,而必须全力争夺全部84个席位。这也是上述党大会确定的下次大选的目标。 人民行动党引导选民的投票意向,以确保其在大选中胜利的最重要最常用的方式,就是运用“城市建设与生活保障基金”控制权。在每次大选中,人民行动党政府都公开表 示,如果反对党在某个区选举中获胜,政府很难为该区拨款以改善生活条件。如2001年和2006年大选,在反对党长期占据的波东巴西选区和后港区选区,都发生了人民行动党把公共政策与竞选策略挂钩的情况。2001年大选时,时任人民行动党秘书长的吴作栋亲自出马,公开宣布人民行动党候选人只要能够在选区内 的任何投票区赢得半数以上的支持票,政府就会在两三年内先为得票率最高的投票区内的邻里进行翻新。2006年大选中,人民行动党再次表示:作为获胜政党当然有权在公屋翻新计划中“优先照顾人民行动党的选民利益。”这就意味着,由于反对党在这两个选区获胜,该两区选民要继续面临又一个长达5年的被剥夺“城市建设与生活保障基金”使用权的漫长岁月。 启示 新加坡国会的选举制度,实质上由执政党通过总理公署制定,并对其是有利的。但人民行动党并不以此而高枕无忧,它始终以5年一次国会选举的历练强迫自己树立忧患意识,警示、教育、敦促党员要与选民保持紧密联 系,否则今后有被别人取代的危险。并由此明确党的任务和目标:巩固和发展党的执政地位,以夺取大选胜利为第一要务,建立基层、地区架构,积极为选民谋福 利,包括利用其执掌的公共资源。人民行动党处理党政关系的“党无处可见,无处不在”的原则,实际上是其党政“内外合一又内外有别”的形象描述。这种独特的 党政关系模式既有西方多党制下执政党的特点,即作为执政党,当仁不让地执掌国家所有重要岗位,同时又在国家政治生活中保持低调,“不显山不露水”。也有不 同于西方多党制的显著特点,就是反对党没有组成“影子内阁”。因为新加坡的多党制是“一党长期执政、多党并存”而不是“多党轮流执政”,在宪制上就没有反对党上台执政的空间,在野党也没有设立“影子内阁”的现实需要。 人民行动党从社会各阶层、各领域、各行各业中物色、吸纳、凝聚已经成功的优秀人才。这种聚集人才方式的好处是:既可实现精英治国,也可借助这些精英已得到民众支持和认可,而扩大党的社会、政治基础,增强党的社会认受性。由于这些精英人才是已成功人士,自身和家庭都有了比较优厚的物质生活基础,加之政府为揽才而给予的高薪,客观上也非常有利于其从政后始终保持廉洁。 这给我们的启示是:在我国社会主义建设的新时期,深化政治体制改革,正确处理党政关系,必须坚持正确的方向。必须按照科学执政、民主执政、依法执政的要求,改善党的领导方式和执政方式,健全领导体制,完善各级领导班子工作机制。既要坚持党总揽全局、协调各方的领导核心作用,也要坚持社会主义政治制度的特点和 优势,推进社会主义民主政治的制度化、规范化、程序化。还应借鉴新加坡人民行动党物色、吸纳、凝聚人才的成功经验,结合我国实际情况,按照“为我所有,更要为我所用”的原则,对我国人才发展战略、政策、体制和机制进行重新审视和调整,努力形成“人才得以脱颖而出”的选人用人局面。 总结此次考察情况,考察团认为,新加坡没有实行西方“政党轮替”式的民主,坚持人民行动党“一党长期执政、多党并存”的政治体制,决非西方政界和舆论不断指责的“专制”或“不民主”;新加坡的政治体制是整体上符合本国实际情况的现代民主政治的一种成功模式。 日期:26-2-2008 来源: http://www.chinaelections.org/NewsInfo.asp?NewsID=123346  Read More →

YSW指正《白衣人》

YSW指正《白衣人》

作者:Yoong Siew Wah 来源:http://singaporerecalcitrant.blogspot.com 评译者:新加坡文献馆 此次容少华(Yoong Siew Wah音译)在部落格上为自己喊冤,这对新加坡社会而言是有着非常的政治意义。首先,指责李光耀犯错是极为罕见的‘不要命’行为,除了那些迫上梁山的好汉 之外,鲜有人胆敢如此妄为。其二,指责李光耀犯错并非来自反对党人士而是已经高龄的前高级官僚。这是否就是来自即得利益集团本身的内部抗议之声?从这篇抗议书以及近年来网络上批判言论来看,这事件是否也反映了社会对人民行动党又或者李光耀不再容忍?又或者说人民对一个与社会脱节的执政党再无宽恕之心?在金融风暴过后贫富愈为显现的新大时代环境下,来自边缘社会的反扑潮浪是否己见雏形? 《白衣人》为的是要让李光耀的政治决策合理化, 利用李光耀传世英名为后李光耀时代的人民行动党建筑一个更稳固的政治权力基础。然而,事与愿违,看来故事书内蒙受不白之冤的人士为了自已一世英名也为了顾及自己下一代的颜面和感受,会毅然出来为自己辩护,若是如此,那么,容少华应该不是唯一或者是最后一名抗告者。始料不及的是《白衣人》已经在无意之中捅破 了马蜂窝;弄巧反拙与欲盖弥彰往往会抖出更多机密事。 译文:一个无良知的寃枉 偶尔,来自并非不可意料之处会突如其来缺德的去攻击一个毫无防范者的名誉。 坦白的说,我不理解这本大事吹嘘的政治著作《白衣人》的几个兴致勃勃的作者有何居心,为何要把我描绘的如此不堪入目。据说这本书是要客观的讲述人民行动党的 奋斗历史,但是我不明白为何我会和这起党内斗争事件有所关系。总之,在书内第441页,这几名具有野心的作者在一节名为‘另外一只外来的手’内用未经证实 而且具轻蔑毁谤意识的文字描绘我;‘但是在1971年,在警方搜查他(萧添寿)的女朋友的寓所后,他使用他的影响力和他与当时贪污调查局局长容少华的友 情,把那4名进行搜查的警察开除。总检查长陈文德为此事进行平反让4名警察复职。之后,萧添寿提出呈辞以避免调查,因为他在司法界有不错的成就。容少华也被要求辞去职务。 09年9月28日我写信给新加坡报业集团的首席执行员,向他指出这段轻蔑与毁谤我的文字,并要求他在报章上作出澄清。我解释说贪污调查局有职务上的责任对所有的正式投诉进行调查。萧添寿提出正式投诉于是贪污调查局进行调查。调查报告提交给副警察总监,他作出开除探员的决定。对探员的指控是有其表面证据的依据。要求我辞职之事根本是子虚乌有。在贪污调查局之后,我转任内政部的局长。 我的信转交到林耀辉的手上,他是3名作者之一。林先生在10月1日回信指出那段毁谤文字的有关资料来自当年总理李光耀在律师业修正法令听证会上的说话,这段说话刊登在1986年10月10日的海峡时报,回信附有其影印一份。 我对此不感到惊讶因为好些人把当年的总理李光耀当作神明,他对别人名誉的诋毁都毫无疑问的被看成是正确。他之所以会说出这些对我的毁谤言论,是在他和冷静沉着的萧添寿在听证会上进行剧烈辩驳时因为火气上头而没有顾及到是否正确,不能排除这一个可能性。他激怒时的异常举止和恶毒言词行为并不是外界一无所知之事。他显然是受不了萧添寿先生尖锐辛辣的奚落,以致他在正常情况下神志清醒的头脑,忽略了我并不是被踢出贪污调查局而是转任内政部局长。随后,向他指出了这回事,但是谦逊并不是他的特长,他不会因为做错事而道歉。林耀辉先生,其中的一名作者,向我保证在下一回的版本中,在书中有关我被要求辞职的文字后另加说明我在事实上是受委派出任内政部局长,以还我清白。 据报告所说,是因为检查总长陈文德的干预而使到4名探员复职。对他而言这是英勇的表现。他必定曾翻阅贪污调查局的报告,不会忽略到不知道开除4名探员的决定是来自副警察总监。为何当年的总理李光耀会认为是我非法的开除那4名探员,我要追究这件事情的真相。 萧添寿在我任贪污调查局局长时是当年的副检查总长。他对所有由贪污调查局送交的报告书做出的最终裁决有全面管辖权力。我和萧添寿之间有良好关系是人际之间交往的本能。对当年的总理李光耀以及检查总长陈文德而言,把这种关系影射为邪恶意图会让批评者认为思想有了问题。为什么我和萧添寿之间的友好关系会被看成是不适当的呢? 此刻李光耀资政理应做的最合宜事情是消取我所遭受到的伤害以及恢复我的名声。但是,他会这样做吗? 以下是其中一些读者的回应: https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=6176905114532816372&postID=8488932474742028454 Blogger Palmer October 10, 2009 2:58 AM:谢谢你和公众分享这件事。 Blogger Alan Wong October 10, 2009 8:37 AM:我是这样想,他本身也是一个恶毒的人,冤枉过许多其他的人。对这些含冤者和他们的亲人,他就是令人憎恨的恶魔。有那么多的好人被关了那么多的年头, 另外许多人他们的一生和事业都毫无道理的被毁坏掉了。地狱等待着他。 Blogger teo October 10, 2009 5:00 PM:你的文笔很好,为何不把你担任内政部局长时的经验写出来? 这有助那些长期遭囚禁者洗清他们的名誉。 萧添寿October 10, 2009 7:30 PM:谢谢你的电邮。它讲述的事件是公正与正确的。你似乎忽略了一件事:在贪污调查局进行调查后,我相信那4名警员还受到纪律程序的调查,调查后的建议是提交副警察总监,并且是由他执行这些建议。如果我的记忆是对的,惹耶勒南是那4名警员的辩护律师。他过后向陈文德呈情,陈文德利用这个机会翻旧帐…。如有新发展请让我知道。附录:Willie近来的日子过的如何?  Read More →

Sponsored Content
Official Quick Links
Members LoginContact UsSupport Us
Sponsored Advertisement
Search On TR Emeritus
Sponsored Advertisement
Advertisement

Announcement

UA-67043412-1