Explainer: What are the eligibility criteria of private sector candidates for the Presidential Election and does George Goh qualify?

into the ring as a potential candidate for the upcoming Presidential Election, attention has turned to the eligibility criteria for candidates.

As a self-made businessman, Mr Goh, 63, will have to measure up to the private sector criteria to be granted the right to run. In addition, the company must have at least S$500 million in shareholders’ equity during the person's most recent three-year period as CEO and have been profitable after tax for the entire time that the candidate served as CEO.

The question has drawn even closer attention after Mr Goh's assertion that the value of his companies has “a collective market capitalisation value of S$3.15 billion”. According to its financial statements for financial year ending in March 2023, it has S$54.9 million in shareholders’ equity. “Based on Mr Goh’s own press statement and public remarks, it would appear that he does not automatically qualify under the private sector service requirement," Assoc Prof Tan said.Experts said that clause 4 of Article 19 in the Constitution provides some discretion for the PEC to assess a candidate’s suitability to run for President under what is called the"deliberative track".

In addition, the PEC must also be satisfied that the person has the experience and ability to effectively carry out the functions and duties of the office of President. Referring to the same clause 4, the NUS adjunct professor said: “The Constitution doesn’t require you to focus on one company alone.

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