For too long, too many Singaporeans have lived in fear of voting for the opposition. This is not the kind of fear that involves wondering if an opposition candidate can run a Town Council or if the opposition can form the government. This is the kind of fear that involves an irrational belief that one might lose his/her job or business deals, that one would not receive priority treatment in school admissions, licensing applications or any variety of activities that require government approval.
The reason why I am blogging about this now is that I just had a conversation with a person that openly stated that he is afraid to vote against the PAP. He is fearful that 'they' will find out and his rice bowl will be affected. After GE 2011, one would think that most Singaporeans would have risen above such fears. But, it looks like such fears still persist.
So, this is a public service announcement for all voters in Punggol East. Your vote is secret. They can't find out for whom you voted. Even if it is not secret, grow a spine! 803,482 of your countrymen have done just that in 2011. Voting against the PAP has not cost them anything. There are many civil servants amongst them that are openly vocal as well. Nothing has happened to them. Cast away your fear. Vote for more checks and balances. Vote for a healthy democracy. Vote wisely (without fear).
http://wp.sg/your-vote-is-secret/
http://maruah.org/2011/05/03/votewithoutfear/
The results of the Punggol PE show that there is no fear factor, or if there was, it has receded.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I understand that elections in the UK also have serial numbers in the ballots similar to ours. Can anyone confirm that.
Looks like increasingly Singaporeans and casting aside their fear. This is good.
ReplyDeleteAs for serial numbers.... yes. UK has it. So do a few other countries. You will find the following to be a useful resource on electoral system issues in relation to many countries including Singapore. The link to the issue on serial numbers is here: http://aceproject.org/electoral-advice/archive/questions/replies/912993749
Subra: This is off-topic but you are the best person to address this to.
ReplyDeleteThe Constitution provides for a maximum of 9 opposition members inclusive of NCMPs. With the WP gaining one new seat in Punggol the total number of opposition MPs is now 10, which breaches the Constitution.
Parliament is now improperly constituted.
Do you think one of the NCMPs should be sacked?
Hello Everybody,
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