PM Lee Hsien Loong on the Presidential Election 2023

Singaporeans have chosen Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam to be our next President by a decisive margin. As Head of State, he will represent us at home and abroad, and exercise custodial powers, including over the reserves and key appointments.

I thank the three candidates for putting themselves forward in this Presidential election. I am happy that Singaporeans have been able to exercise the right to vote for our next President, and to focus on what the elected President is about. In this election, both voters and candidates have shown a greater understanding of the roles and duties of the President, which bodes well for Singapore.

Mr Tharman has a long and distinguished record of public service. I have every confidence that he will carry out his duties as President with distinction.

I have called Mr Tharman to congratulate him on his election, and to assure him of my Government’s full cooperation. Mr Tharman has also declared his intention to work closely with the Government.

As Head of State, the President has to be a unifying figure that all Singaporeans can look up to and identify with. He must exercise his custodial powers under the Constitution wisely, bringing to bear his experience and independent judgement. Internationally, representing Singapore, he must fly our flag high.

I thank the election officials for their hard work that has ensured a smooth and successful Presidential election. I also wish to thank all voters, both here and abroad, for doing our civic duty.

Now that the election is over, let us come together again as Singaporeans, to tackle the challenges ahead and build a stronger and more united nation.

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PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
2 SEPTEMBER 2023