SINGAPORE: Ang Mo Kio GRC is set for a three-way contest in the upcoming general election, following failed talks between two opposition parties on who should stand against the People’s Action Party (PAP).
The Singapore United Party (SUP) and the People’s Power Party (PPP) have both declared their intention to field candidates in the ward.
The PAP team in Ang Mo Kio is led by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, which won 71.91 per cent of the vote in 2020 against the Reform Party (RP).
SUP secretary-general Andy Zhu confirmed his party will proceed with its campaign despite the possibility of splitting opposition votes.
Speaking to reporters on 10 April during a walkabout at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, Zhu said attempts to broker an agreement with PPP had been unsuccessful.
“I have spoken to [PPP secretary-general] Goh Meng Seng, and he will take the matter back to his team to deliberate… We do hope that PPP will recede from here,” said Zhu.
PPP treasurer William Lim is expected to lead his party’s team in Ang Mo Kio.
According to state media The Straits Times, Goh confirmed the meeting with Zhu but said no resolution has been reached.
PPP had earlier expressed interest in contesting five constituencies, including Ang Mo Kio GRC. However, it has since pulled out of Nee Soon GRC, and activity in Jalan Kayu SMC has been minimal.
Zhu reiterated that SUP has been active in Ang Mo Kio since its formation in 2020.
The party has conducted monthly house visits, market walkabouts, and festive giveaways such as food during Ramadan and mandarin oranges during Chinese New Year.
Zhu, a property agent, emphasised that Ang Mo Kio was chosen because SUP believed no other opposition party intended to contest there.
He added that the decision was made to avoid clashing with allies from The Coalition, an informal alliance of opposition parties including the National Solidarity Party (NSP), Red Dot United (RDU), and the Singapore People’s Party (SPP).
Zhu previously contested in Ang Mo Kio under the RP banner in 2020, when the party secured 28.09 per cent of the vote.
He is adamant that SUP will contest the GRC in the upcoming election and noted that vendors have already been paid to produce election materials.
When asked about the PAP’s strong showing in 2020 and the presence of Lee Hsien Loong, Zhu said his focus is on representing residents.
“Our priority is the people,” he said. “We are here to be the voice of Singaporeans.”
SUP’s campaign slogan, “Moving forward, together”, is intended to reflect its commitment to unity with residents.
The party’s election manifesto and slate of candidates will be announced when the Writ of Election is issued.
Zhu noted that SUP’s policy proposals have been shaped by resident feedback.
Key concerns raised include the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and healthcare expenses.
Zhu said the manifesto will propose removing the goods and services tax for basic necessities.
He acknowledged that SUP now faces a dual challenge in Ang Mo Kio — contending with both the PAP and PPP.
“The main challenge now is that we have to deal with the PAP and the other party,” he said.
“More efforts will be needed to fend the PPP off, and to showcase our candidates and what they have for the residents.”
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