Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a prominent figure in Singaporean politics for over two decades, has always been reluctant to pursue the role of Prime Minister despite widespread public support. However, he has recently announced his resignation from the government and his intention to run for the presidency—a ceremonial position with some constitutional responsibilities.
While this move may not be a direct path to the premiership, it allows Tharman to navigate the question of whether Singapore is ready to have a racial minority as the head of government. As an ethnic Tamil in a country where all previous Prime Ministers have been of Chinese descent, Tharman's bid for the presidency represents a step towards a more inclusive leadership.
In his resignation letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Tharman expressed his desire to represent the unity of Singaporeans from diverse backgrounds, stating that he can now serve the country in a role that transcends politics.
Tharman's popularity among voters is undeniable. He has consistently secured significant margins of victory in parliamentary elections and was the preferred choice for Singaporeans to succeed Lee as Prime Minister in a Yahoo News poll conducted in 2016.
Although candidates for President cannot belong to a political party, Prime Minister Lee has effectively endorsed Tharman's candidacy, acknowledging his exceptional leadership, experience, and international stature. Tharman's departure from the Cabinet and the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) is seen as a significant loss.
Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a Singaporean native, boasts an impressive academic background, having earned degrees from renowned institutions such as the London School of Economics, the University of Cambridge, and Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. Prior to his political career, he served as the chief economist of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
Throughout his tenure, Tharman has held various government roles, including finance and education ministerial portfolios. He also served as the deputy Prime Minister and chairman of MAS. In preparation for his presidential bid, Tharman will step down from his current positions as senior minister, coordinating minister for social policies, MAS chair, deputy chair of the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation, and chairman of the Economic Development Board's International Advisory Council.
Tharman's commitment to grassroots politics and social mobility has resonated with Singaporeans across the political spectrum. His notable international appointments include co-chairing the Global Commission on the Economics of Water and chairing the Board of Trustees of the Group of 30. He has also been recognized for his expertise in economic and financial matters, previously serving as the first Asian chair of the International Monetary Fund's policy forum.
At present, no other candidates have declared their intention to run for President, although Lee Hsien Yang, the younger brother of Prime Minister Lee, has expressed his consideration. To qualify for candidacy, individuals must be Singaporean citizens, at least 45 years old, and residents in the country for a minimum of ten years. They must also demonstrate integrity, good character, and reputation, as well as meet specific public or private service requirements set by the Presidential Elections Committee.
Tharman's qualifications and contributions to Singapore make him a formidable contender for the presidency. His extensive experience in shaping financial policies and his commitment to Singapore's stability have garnered significant respect. The PAP's decision to position a strong figure like Tharman in the largely ceremonial role of the presidency reflects their recognition of the importance of maintaining a capable and respected leader in that position.
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