“Make Your Vote Count” – Workers’ Party Rivals PAP in Fresh Manifesto
On Sunday, June 28, WP Secretary‑General Pritam Singh took the mic to reveal the party’s battle cry and a blueprint for Singapore. “Make Your Vote Count,” he said, is not just a slogan but a promise to bring fresh opposition MPs into Parliament and strengthen our democratic fabric.
Why the Stakes Are High
Singh warned that the ruling People’s Action Party’s super‑majority could wipe out opposition seats at the July 10 vote if voters don’t act. “Opposition MPs are the heartbeat of politics,” he said. “We need you to cast your vote for the WP, so we can keep the chamber lively.”
Manifesto Highlights (Four Pillars)
- Social & Education – Policies that help Singaporeans chase their dreams.
- Jobs – Dignified employment for workers.
- Home – Tackling the cost of living so everyone can afford a roof.
- Governance & Defences – Stronger institutions and a resilient political system.
COVID‑19: 8 of 48 Pages All About It
WP’s manifesto spends a solid chunk on the pandemic. It acknowledges the government’s response but says it’s the opposition’s duty to offer constructive ideas:
- Free vaccinations for all once they’re available.
- Better communication of rules.
- Closing gaps in support packages.
“We’re not just cheering the status quo; we’re putting our serious hats on to discuss how to emerge stronger,” Singh told reporters.
Teamwork Behind the Manifesto
Started in late 2018, the central executive committee formed a “dream team” that included Ms He Ting Ru, Gerald Giam, Leon Perera, and Daniel Goh. They consulted specialists, industry experts, and everyday residents across Aljunied GRC and Hougang SMC.
Ms He Ting Ru – A High‑Voltage Candidate
“Singapore’s preparedness against disruptions is shaky,” He said. “Global supply chains and societies are fragile. We need to thrive in a post‑COVID world.” She’s aiming to build a future where the WP could one day form an alternative government, but for now she’s level‑heading the manifesto’s proposals.
Gerald Giam – Cost of Living Crusader
- Opposes raising the GST from 7 % to 9 %.
- Calls on the government to explore other revenue sources – like the $15 billion in land sales or raising the net investment returns contribution (NIRC) from 50 % to 60 %.
- Proposes a redundancy insurance scheme: up to 40 % of a retrenched worker’s last‑drawn salary for six months, capped at $1,200 a month.
- Withholds average workers to pay $4 a month into an employment security fund, matched by employers.
- Recommends lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 and implementing media reform.
- Advocates for banning styrofoam if greener alternatives exist.
Leon Perera – Champion of Seniors
- Suggests lowering the CPF Payout Eligibility Age and the CPF Life Eligibility Age to 60.
- Calls for greater transparency on GIC investment returns.
- Proposes a special dividend for CPF Special Account members when GIC returns beat net interest payable.
- Supports free public transport for those 65 + and people with disabilities.
- Proposes a universal buy‑back scheme for HDB lessees to stop resale price decay.
Closing Words from Sylvia Lim
Party Chairman Sylvia Lim summed up the session: “Singapore needs more perspectives. Breaking away from the past may be our best formula for the unknowns ahead.”
With a fresh manifesto, the Workers’ Party is ready to invite every Singaporean to look beyond the usual narratives and make their vote count.
