Indian-Origin Tharman Shanmugaratnam Among Top 3 Contenders in Singapore’s Presidential Race

Singapore: Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a Singaporean of Indian origin, has been officially named as a contender in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for September 1.

Two other candidates of Chinese descent, Ng Kok Song and Tan Kin Lian, are also in the race. The Elections Department (ELD) formalized their candidacies, requiring a forfeit of SGD 40,500 each if they withdraw. Campaigning will run until August 30, with the Polling Day set for September 1. The current President Halimah Yacob’s term concludes on September 13.

Tharman, a former senior minister within the ruling People’s Action Party Government, emphasized a dignified and unifying contest. He expressed his commitment to a fair, inclusive society, stating that Singapore holds the potential for a unique future. Tharman, who resigned from political and public roles to vie for the presidency, seeks to contribute his extensive experience for the nation’s betterment.

The President, although non-political, holds crucial responsibilities, including critical state appointments and protecting national reserves, requiring presidential consensus for government access.