It is true that the opposition parties are not in a position to match the incumbent People’s Action Party, for the simple reason that they do not possess the experience, means and capability of running the country at the present moment (“Next GE will be a fight to see who forms govt, says PM Lee”; Monday).
There are some who strongly believe that checks and balances are necessary to ensure the ruling party delivers promises made during the election.
They also feel that opposition MPs can help articulate sentiments from the ground, especially when there is disagreement over government policies.
Hence, they believe an alternative voice in Parliament is healthy, drawing the analogy that consumers enjoy better service when there is competition among business owners.
It is likely that they are voting for the opposition because of this, and not because they want a change of government or are disillusioned with the government of the day.
Will this bring about a freak election result?
I do not think so as most Singaporeans are pragmatic and will find it more logical to vote for a party that has improved their lives since it came to power in 1959.
Jeffrey Law Lee Beng
*Letter first appeared in ST Forum, 12 Dec.