But it is worthwhile to consider the longer-term effect of his decision and, if elected, his assumption of the role of president and its impact on the country’s leadership transition, expected to take place in the next few years.
While the role of the president is above politics, a potential President Tharman Shanmugaratnam will likely have an impact on the direction of the country, through the dynamics between him and the new leaders, and how voters view the executive and the elected presidency in tandem.It would be an understatement to say that Mr Tharman is a heavyweight domestically and internationally, in terms of his experience and accomplishments.
He chaired a G20 Eminent Persons Group on Global Financial Governance, and co-chaired a High-Level Independent Panel on Global Financing focused on pandemic preparedness and response for the grouping. His role as president would thus be important when it comes to shoring up Singapore’s reputation in the years ahead, given his standing and the respect he commands from the international community.
Though the president does not have direct sway on government policies or decisions, having a steady hand like Mr Tharman in the Istana may be reassuring to international observers, partners, investors and even voters who will be watching Singapore’s future direction under the new leadership. Having as experienced and established a leader as Mr Tharman as president could be both a boon and a bane for the 4G leadership, given that he could play an important role in rallying or reassuring the people in difficult times.
PM Lee, too, in his letter to Mr Tharman, said he believes the latter would exercise the president’s role with his “independence of mind”. It should be emphasised that there is no sign at all that there could be any conflict between Mr Tharman and his parliamentary colleagues, and the former avid sportsman and combined schools hockey player has been the epitome of a team player throughout his political career.
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In full: Exchange of letters between SM Tharman Shanmugaratnam and PM Lee Hsien LoongSINGAPORE: Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Thursday (Jun 8) informed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of his decision to retire from politics and all positions in government, in order to
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