As 2023 drew to a close, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong addressed the nation in a New Year Message, offering insights into the upcoming year and delivering news of a significant leadership transition. In a noteworthy announcement, he revealed that Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong would assume the role of Prime Minister in 2024. This transition marks a crucial milestone in Singapore’s political landscape.
Leadership Handover in 2024
Prime Minister Lee emphasized that the leadership transition would take place in the coming year, with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong set to take the reins as Prime Minister. This move aligns with the earlier indication made in November, where PM Lee stated that the transition would occur before the next General Election, mandated to be held no later than November 2025.
Acknowledging the delicacy of leadership transitions, PM Lee urged Singaporeans to be mindful of the significance of the upcoming change. He highlighted that such transitions invite close scrutiny, both domestically and internationally. Observers worldwide will be keen to witness the bonding between the people and the new leadership and assess Singapore’s ability to maintain its success and exceptionality.
Global Scrutiny and Expectations
As Singapore undergoes this leadership transition, PM Lee emphasized that the eyes of the world would be on the nation. The global community will closely watch how Singaporeans and the new leadership connect and whether the country continues to uphold its reputation for success and exceptionalism.
In light of the challenges associated with leadership changes, PM Lee urged Singaporeans to extend their full support to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the 4G leaders who will be at the forefront of steering the nation forward. Recognizing the importance of unity and solidarity during this period, he emphasized the need for a collective effort in ensuring a smooth transition and continued success for Singapore.
Snippet of PM Lee’s New Year Message
“As a small red dot, Singapore cannot afford to make the same mistakes and suffer the same consequences. We must work ever harder to keep our society together, and strengthen our sense of shared identity and nationhood.
Next year, DPM Lawrence Wong will take over from me as Prime Minister. This is not the first time we are having a leadership transition. But transitions are always delicate.
Singapore will come under close scrutiny. People near and far are watching to see how the new leaders bond with Singaporeans, and whether our small nation can remain successful and exceptional.
I urge Singaporeans to stand together, give your full support to Lawrence and his 4G team, and work with them to build a nation that is vibrant and inclusive, fair and competitive, and resilient and united.
This is how we have come through successive crises and done well, and this is how we must surmount future challenges which are bound to come.
Let us face 2024 invigorated and confident, as one united people. The future may be uncertain, but our path is clear. I call on every Singaporean to come together to fulfil our aspirations, and secure a bright future for Singapore.”
Source: Prime Minister’s Office