Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a distinguished Indian-origin economist born in Singapore, has assumed the prestigious role of the ninth President of the Asian city-state. His six-year term officially commenced on September 14, following the conclusion of President Halimah Yacob's tenure, who made history as Singapore's first female president.
A Life of Dedicated Public Service
Tharman Shanmugaratnam has dedicated his life to serving Singapore through various notable roles. His candidacy garnered immense support from Singapore's predominantly Chinese society during the presidential election.
Previously, Tharman served as a senior minister from 2019 to 2023 and as the coordinating minister for social policies from 2015 to 2023. Furthermore, he chaired the Monetary Authority of Singapore from 2011 to 2023 and held the position of deputy prime minister from May 2011 to May 2019.
Singapore has witnessed only two other Indian-origin presidents prior to Tharman's appointment.
A Vote of Confidence for Singapore's Future
Tharman's victory in the recent election, where he secured over two-thirds of the votes against two opponents, was viewed as a resounding endorsement of the ruling party and a symbol of Singaporeans' optimism for the future. With an impressive 70.4% of the vote, he humbly expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is not just a vote for me, it is a vote for Singapore's future."
His primary rival, Ng Kok Song, the former chief investment officer of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC, conceded defeat with just 15.7% of the vote.
The Role and Responsibilities
The presidency in Singapore is accompanied by rigorous requirements. The president formally oversees the city's financial reserves and possesses the authority to veto certain measures and approve anti-graft investigations.
Despite being a non-partisan position according to Singapore's constitution, political divisions emerged in the run-up to the election to succeed Halimah Yacob, who ran unopposed for her six-year term in 2017.
A President for All Singaporeans
Tharman Shanmugaratnam's candidacy was highly favoured, leading to his resignation from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and his role as a senior minister in the cabinet. This move was necessary, as all presidential candidates in Singapore must maintain their independence.
Singapore's government is headed by the Prime Minister, currently Lee Hsien Loong of the PAP, which has held uninterrupted rule over Singapore since 1959. Tharman Shanmugaratnam's inauguration as President marks a new chapter in Singapore's political landscape, symbolizing continuity and a fresh vision for the nation's future.
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