President Halimah Yacob made an announcement on Monday, May 29, stating that she will not seek re-election for a second term in the upcoming presidential election later this year.
In a statement, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Singapore’s eighth President over the past six years, considering it a great honor and privilege. President Halimah highlighted the tremendous responsibilities associated with the presidency and her aim to contribute to the creation of a more caring and compassionate society.
Full statement :
During her tenure, President Halimah emphasized the significance of the presidency as the highest office in Singapore, playing a crucial role in unifying the nation and embodying shared values and aspirations. She acknowledged the constitutional, ceremonial, and community-related duties of the President, including the responsibility for safeguarding Singapore’s future and playing a part in key appointments and the management of reserves.
President Halimah expressed her appreciation for the support she received from the Singaporean people, irrespective of their race, language, or social standing. She acknowledged the collaboration with various community, social, and business organizations that inspired her commitment to building a better Singapore.
Additionally, she conveyed her gratitude to her husband and family for their unwavering support throughout her presidency.
The upcoming presidential election in Singapore, scheduled to be held by September 13, will be open to candidates of all races. The 2017 election was reserved for Malay candidates, resulting in President Halimah becoming Singapore’s first Malay president in 47 years and the first female president. Constitutional amendments made in 2016 mandate the reservation of the elected presidency for candidates from a particular racial group if no president from that group has been elected in the previous five terms.
During her presidency, President Halimah conducted official visits to several countries, including China and South Korea, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties. She actively engaged in charitable initiatives and supported various causes, such as the President’s Challenge, an annual campaign that raises funds and promotes volunteerism for organizations in Singapore.
To be eligible to run for president, candidates must meet certain requirements outlined in the Constitution. Public sector candidates must have held positions such as minister, chief justice, Speaker of the House, attorney-general, or permanent secretary for at least three years. Chief executives of key statutory boards or government-owned companies are also eligible. Private sector candidates must have served as a chief executive of a company with an average of S$500 million in shareholders’ equity for at least three years. Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate integrity, good character, and reputation to the Presidential Elections Committee.
On May 10, Minister-in-charge of the Public Service, Chan Chun Sing, disclosed that approximately 50 public service positions may fulfill the public sector service requirement for the next presidential election in Singapore.
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