Fri Apr 18 11:11:08 UTC 2025: **Singaporean Defence Minister Steps Down Ahead of General Election**
SINGAPORE (April 18, 2025) – Singapore’s Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen announced his resignation from politics on Friday, making him the first confirmed member of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) not to contest the upcoming general election on May 3rd. The 66-year-old cited the importance of leadership renewal within the PAP, echoing the actions of his predecessors. His departure is part of a broader effort by the party to inject fresh blood into its ranks, with 32 new candidates – the largest intake in decades – set to run in the election.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the party’s commitment to renewal, highlighting the inclusion of new candidates as a key priority. Mr. Ng, a former oncologist who served in various ministerial roles over two decades, including as Minister for Education and Manpower, praised the PAP’s commitment to generational change, stating that older politicians must step aside to pave the way for future leaders. Another former Member of Parliament, Chong Kee Hiong, will also not be contesting the election. The PAP’s election manifesto, unveiled alongside the candidate lineup, underscores this focus on renewal.
First Piper 