In an earlier article, we discussed the theory that Heng Swee Keat is merely a stop-gap, transitional PM, who would eventually hand over the reins to either Chan Chun Sing or Ong Ye Kung. Clearly, Heng's stint will be severely limited by time and his own age on one hand, and the PAP's own emphasis on continued leadership renewal.
Both locals and foreigners alike have depicted Heng as a calm, methodical man with the credentials and gravitas to be a successful PM. They also falling over themselves to paint him as a consultative leader. Perhaps, this was a pre-emptive attempt to pander to the ideals of a more educated, questioning, middle-class society. Or it could be an early move to characterise him as a leader that is different to Lee Hsien Loong. Just like how in the 1990s, there was a deliberate effort to pain Goh Chok Tong as a softer, gentler leader, compared to Lee Kuan Yew.
Singaporeans should not be swayed by the narrative of the mainstream media and the PAP. They should look at the policies implemented by Heng, as well as his actions, and then decide for themselves.
Human rights activist Jolovan Wham articulated it best when he contended that it was easier to be consultative and to do things through consensus in a top-down polity like Singapore. The grassroots organisations, trade unions, and civil society are co-opted, if not already marginalised. There are no real challenges or problems for the PAP to manage. There is no real opposition.
Heng has also implemented unpopular policies. In his current stint as Finance Minister, he is overseeing the policy of increasing GST rates from 7% to 9%. In a post-Budget interview with CNA, Heng acknowledged that Singaporeans were concerned about how the increase in GST would affect the cost of living and the quality of life for most Singaporeans. His reaction to this was merely to reassure Singaporeans that this was a prudent policy to secure funding for the future. Consultative? Maybe. However, that has not stopped him from reassessing or reconsidering the implementation of the GST increase. He is demonstrating the same elitist detachment that is characteristic of most of his PAP leadership.
Heng has not given a specific date for the eventual increase. The implementation will only be done some time between 2021 and 2025. Guess what, by most accounts, he will be PM by that time.
What will Heng do if the global and domestic situations take a turn for the worse? What happens if cost of living in Singapore becomes more and more unbearable for more Singaporeans? Will he stick to his policy? Chances are, because of group think, he will continue to push through the implementation of the GST increase, rather than defer it.
As a person, Heng may be a stand-up guy. However, we must not forget the environment and the party that has shaped his opinions and worldview. As a PM, it would be even more difficult for him to become more detached from the party and its beliefs, ideals, and policies. Will Heng be a good PM for Singapore? Only if he eschews the white for another colour.
The writer, Kelvin, has zero chance of becoming PM.
