Lawrence Wong was inaugurated as Singapore’s new prime minister on Wednesday, marking a significant generational shift in the nation’s leadership. The 51-year-old succeeds Lee Hsien Loong, who stepped down after two decades at the helm.
In his inauguration speech, Wong highlighted that he is the first Singaporean prime minister born after the country’s independence in 1965. He noted that many members of the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) fourth-generation team share this distinction.
“Our experiences are shaped by the values that forged Singapore: incorruptibility, meritocracy, multiracialism, justice, and equality,” Wong said. “Shaped by these experiences, our leadership style will differ from that of previous generations. We will lead in our own way. We will continue to think boldly and to think far.”
Wong acknowledged the challenges ahead, citing an uncertain global environment and the nation’s vulnerability to external influences. “We understand the vital importance of good leadership, political stability, and long-term planning,” he stated. “We are beneficiaries of the imaginative policies of our founding fathers, pursued resolutely and patiently over decades.”
Earlier in the week, Wong conducted a minor cabinet reshuffle, promoting Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong to Deputy Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of continuity and stability. He has pledged a more extensive reshuffle following the general election due by next year.
Lee Hsien Loong will remain in the cabinet as Senior Minister, following the tradition of former Singaporean prime ministers. Wong’s accession marks a new chapter in Singapore’s political landscape, as the nation navigates a complex global environment with a new generation of leaders at the helm.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
