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Delaying election in Singapore is unconstitutional, says Teo Chee Hean

25 Mar 2020 < 1 min read

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Responding to a question raised by Member of Parliament, Mr Chris De Souza on the government’s stand with regards to delaying the election amid Covid-19 by having the president form a caretaker government, Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean said that an election can be put off only when a state of emergency is declared.

As of now, Mr Teo mentioned that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has yet to decide on when the general election will take place.

He further clarified that a caretaker government lacks the mandate of voters, thus is not able to make major decisions on behalf of Singaporeans. Suggesting for an early election, Mr Teo said it will give the new government a clear and fresh mandate to steer Singapore through the crisis.

“Today, more than ever, we need a government that the people have expressed confidence in to take us through this unprecedented health crisis and stabilise the economy and safeguard our people’s lives and livelihoods.”