I am happy to note that potential People’s Action Party candidates are carefully selected, trained and positioned at the grassroots level as early as possible (“Potential PAP candidates ‘already on the ground’”; Monday).
It is not easy being an MP these days as it has become “fashionable” for people to disagree with the Government, which is to be expected as people are better educated and more discerning.
What is worrying is that more are disagreeing simply for the sake of disagreeing. There is less trust in the Government and some even criticise good policies.
Thus, potential candidates must be able to build trust between the Government and the people, and have a good feel of the ground sentiment. They must be trained to handle issues that affect the people, including emotional and difficult ones.
Retreats can be organised for grassroots volunteers, including potential candidates, to fine-tune procedures and build up their emotional quotient.
Older grassroots members who have served for a long time should also be considered potential candidates. They are familiar with the ground and have built a rapport with residents.
V. Balu
*Letter first appeared in ST Forum (29 Mar).