Singapore's next leader Wong to face crucial test in election

First prime minister in 20 years must 'buttress trust' of voters, experts say

Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of the PAP. Scoring a decisive victory in the next election is going to be crucial for the nation's incoming prime minister. (Photo by Mayumi Tsumita)

DYLAN LOH and TSUBASA SURUGA, Nikkei staff writers

November 10, 2023 11:18 JST

SINGAPORE -- Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) is set to fight the next general election due by 2025 with a new leader, Lawrence Wong, as incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong prepares to step down after 20 years in office.

Lee, who has been in office since 2004 and is now 71 years old, said during a party convention on Sunday that he was handing over the reins to Wong, 50, who is now deputy prime minister. The handover is to be completed by Nov. 21 next year, the 70th anniversary of the PAP's founding -- a crucial period for Wong in building a convincing win in the next election, which must be held by November 2025.