Singapore’s elections are highly predictable, with the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) consistently securing another five-year term with a supermajority, making the process feel routine. Campaigning tends to be subdued, and political upsets are rare. However, some figures, like Leong Mun Wai, add a degree of interest.
Known for his direct and outspoken style, Leong has returned as secretary-general of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), positioning himself as a key opposition voice. His unyielding stance—both praised and criticized—has shaped his political identity. While his bluntness has earned him respect, even begrudgingly, it remains to be seen whether this approach will boost or hinder the party’s electoral prospects. A vocal critic of immigration policies and foreign labor, he has built his reputation as a staunch advocate for local workers.
Under his leadership, PSP is expected to take a more confrontational stance, signaling a departure from the approach of his predecessor, Hazel Poa. His leadership is also likely to energize voters seeking stronger opposition representation in Parliament.
A Comeback
Leong Mun Wai resumed his role as party leader on March 26, a little over a year after resigning in February 2024 following a correction directive under Singapore’s fake news laws for one of his social media posts. The Progress Singapore Party’s (PSP) new central executive committee reinstated him after electing its top leadership body on March 20, with six of the 12 members newly appointed.
Now, Leong will lead PSP into the upcoming general election, widely expected by mid-year. Speaking to the media on March 26, he emphasized that the party’s direction would remain largely unchanged, as he and Hazel Poa have always worked closely together. Comparing the leadership transition to a relay team passing the baton, he suggested that Poa had effectively been standing in for him as secretary-general over the past year and that they should be seen as alternates to each other.
The Right Leader at the Right Time
With the party focused on election readiness, some cadres pushed for Leong Mun Wai’s return, believing his leadership would energize their efforts. Members noted that the party feels reinvigorated, with volunteers experiencing the pressure—but in a positive way.
Known for his vocal stance on national issues, Leong is expected to make immigration a key focus of PSP’s campaign, an issue that helped the party gain traction in its first parliamentary term. PSP’s election strategy is likely to mirror the approach he and fellow NCMP Hazel Poa have taken in Parliament—challenging the PAP with sharp rhetoric, persistent questioning, strategic ambiguity, and an appeal to the underdog narrative.
Leong’s return as PSP chief signals that his standing within the party remains strong despite the circumstances of his resignation. His re-election reflects renewed confidence in his “Folksy and Combative” approach to engaging the PAP. His decision to step down following the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) order was a strategic move to position the party for the upcoming election.
PSP in GE2025
While PSP is challenging the PAP, its main objective is to expand its parliamentary presence and solidify its foundation as a relatively new party. Resource allocation is also a key factor. Unlike in the 2020 General Election, when PSP fielded 24 candidates across nine constituencies, the party may scale back this time to avoid overextending itself. In 2020, it contested West Coast, Chua Chu Kang, Tanjong Pagar, and Nee Soon GRCs, as well as Pioneer, Hong Kah North, Kebun Baru, Marymount, and Yio Chu Kang SMCs.
This time, PSP may forgo Nee Soon GRC and Jurong Central SMC, where Red Dot United has already staked its claim. Additionally, it might opt out of Kebun Baru, Marymount, and Yio Chu Kang SMCs, given their central Singapore locations.
Based on recent activity, PSP appears set to contest Chua Chu Kang GRC again and is likely to run in the newly formed West Coast–Jurong West GRC. However, a return to Nee Soon GRC seems unlikely. It remains uncertain which single-member constituencies the party will target or whether it will field a team in Tanjong Pagar GRC. PSP has stated that it is still evaluating the revised electoral map.