As Singapore approaches the next General Election, it is increasingly distasteful to witness the government repeatedly drawing on the legacy and memory of Lee Kuan Yew for political mileage. Few would deny that Mr. Lee was one of the world’s greatest statesmen — a man whose tenacity, perseverance, thrift, clear-eyed leadership, and unwavering focus on improving the lives of Singaporeans transformed a struggling island into a thriving nation. His ability to pick strong leaders and hold them to high standards is a key part of the Singapore success story. These values deserve to be remembered and celebrated for generations.
However, invoking his name and image to justify current policies or to shore up electoral support does a disservice to his memory. The government should stand on its own record, not lean on the achievements of the past to mask shortcomings in the present.
In fact, one cannot help but feel that today’s leadership is evolving away from the values that Lee Kuan Yew so deeply embodied. There is growing public sentiment that leadership has become increasingly detached from the lives of ordinary Singaporeans — more focused on preserving privilege and enriching itself than on serving the people with humility and discipline. Policies appear more technocratic than empathetic, and the cost of living continues to outpace wage growth for many households.
Singaporeans deserve leadership that demonstrates the same perseverance, thrift, integrity, and long-term vision that Lee Kuan Yew once did — not merely slogans and nostalgia used as political tools. His legacy should inspire excellence and selflessness, not be exploited to maintain dominance and entrench barriers to genuine political competition.
To truly honour Mr. Lee’s memory, the government should focus on regaining the trust of the people through actions that reflect his principles: rigorous selection of leaders, unwavering focus on the welfare of Singaporeans, prudent stewardship of public funds, and, most importantly, humility in service. Anything less diminishes his legacy — and our nation.
CWC-AI
