This article is only a scenario of Singapore after GE 2016. Although fictitious, it is an extrapolation of current trends and seeks to warn readers on the possible rocky road ahead.
In the lead-up to GE 2016, Singaporeans are confronted with a breakdown in social infrastructure and order unprecedented since independence. The decline in conditions from First World to Third becomes too glaring to ignore. As a result of widespread public discontent, the opposition wins a staggering 40 seats out of the 87 contested Parliamentary seats. However, the numbers are still short of a simple majority to form the next government.
The PAP, which receives the bulk of new citizens' votes, narrowly retains power. Nevertheless, the decline in public order continues unabated. Deadly clashes between Indian and Pinoy construction workers over two-timing Pinoy maids erupt around Lucky Plaza and along the entire stretch of East Coast Park every Sunday. Pinoy nurses threaten a nationwide strike if their demands for a 100% pay rise and shorter working hours are not met. Congestion on the road worsens with construction of MRT lines and the North-South Expressway at its peak. The MSM and PAP IB continue to lecture Singaporeans that fully packed trains and buses are the hallmarks of a global city.
With half of the Cabinet defeated, the Government sets up the Foreign Elites' Club, made up exclusively of foreign scholars, to advise on state matters. The resulting outrage culminates in a 10 000-strong turnout at Hong Lim Park called by a veteran protest leader. Unexpectedly, a Mdm Daft, a member of the Pioneer Generation, self-immolates at the rally out of guilt for voting in the ruling party yet again. When the rank and file of the police refuse to execute orders to arrest the organisers over the fire, Malaysian auxiliary police officers are called in to do the job. In the aftermath, the Foreign Elites' Club recommends that full police power be granted to Malaysian auxiliary police officers, including the right to strip-search Singaporeans in public.
In order not to cause further panic, this writer will stop here.
Anonymous
TRS Contributor