Singapore: In a historic win, former Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam has been elected as the President of Singapore. He was elected as Singapore’s president in the first contested vote for this ceremonial position in over a decade.
Official results released by the Elections Department revealed that the 66-year-old economist secured victory over two rival candidates with a substantial 70.4 per cent of the votes. The presidential election saw a significant turnout, with more than 2.7 million voters cast their votes.
According to the reports, Election returning officer Tan Meng Dui formally declared Mr Shanmugaratnam as the duly elected President of Singapore. He replaces incumbent Halimah Yacob who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017.
Expressing his gratitude and optimism, Mr. Shanmugaratnam stated, “I believe that it’s a vote of confidence in Singapore. It’s a vote of optimism for a future in which we can progress together.” His victory carries significant responsibilities, as the President plays a crucial role in overseeing the city’s substantial financial reserves and holds the authority to veto certain measures and approve anti-corruption investigations.
Observers said that Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s win is seen as a boost for the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), which is widely perceived to support his candidacy. The ruling party in Singapore, in power since 1959 has been hurt by a rare spate of political scandals ahead of the presidential vote.
Mr. Shanmugaratnam, a former Finance Minister and a longtime member of the PAP, resigned from his party position to run for the non-partisan role of President. During the campaign, questions were raised about his independence due to his previous ties with the government.
Tharman shanmugaratnam’s political journey
The newly elected President, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, entered politics in 2001, has officially launched his campaign for the polls in July. During his campaign, he promised the country to evolve Singapore’s culture to keep it a “shining spot” in the world.
Sixty-six years old Tharman Shanmugaratnam previously held the position of Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister from 2011 to 2019. His political career began in 2001 and has worked for the public sector, holding various ministerial roles.
Over 2.7 million voters cast their ballots. The voters started casting their ballots at 8 AM when polling stations opened. The polls closed at 8 PM (local time).