Drafting S’pore laws demands political judgment, not just legal expertise: SM Lee

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasized that crafting laws and the Constitution tailored to a country's unique needs and circumstances requires more than just legal expertise; it demands political insight and judgment. At the launch of a book detailing three distinctively Singaporean laws - the elected presidency, Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs), and Non-Constituency Members of Parliament (NCMPs), former Cabinet minister and jurist S. Jayakumar highlighted that these laws were forged by pragmatic leaders who were deeply aware of the nation's vulnerabilities and potential pitfalls.

The elected presidency aimed to safeguard the Republic's reserves and the integrity of its public service, GRCs sought to ensure minority racial representation, and NCMPs guaranteed opposition voices within Parliament. Despite initial disagreements and the discarding of various models, these laws underwent significant revisions before implementation.

Lee noted that these constitutional innovations were crafted by individuals who understood Singapore's context, from demographic shifts to political dynamics. The true test lay in how these laws would withstand the test of time. While the elected presidency has proven effective in holding political parties accountable during crises and normal times, it requires a President with both the capacity and popular support to wield its power appropriately.

GRCs have effectively ensured minority representation, discouraging overt racial appeals, and NCMPs have provided a platform for opposition voices. The book offers a glimpse into the intense yet objective debates among Singapore's leaders, showcasing the essence of collective responsibility in Cabinet governance.