Why has the PAP dominated Singapore politics since 1965?

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The People's Action Party's Enduring Dominance in Singaporean Politics

The People's Action Party (PAP) has maintained its political dominance in Singapore since the nation's independence in 1965 due to a combination of factors, including a history of delivering economic prosperity, a supportive electoral system, and challenges faced by opposition parties. This enduring influence has seen Singapore led by only three Prime Ministers: Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Chok Tong, and the current leader, Lee Hsien Loong, all under the PAP's banner.
Economic Growth and Prosperity as a Foundation

A significant contributor to the PAP's sustained power has been its role in overseeing substantial economic growth and achieving widespread prosperity for the nation. This track record has helped to entrench the party in the political landscape, fostering a sense of stability and progress among the electorate. The party's governance has been closely associated with the island's transformation into a highly developed economy.
An Electoral System Favouring Incumbency

Singapore's electoral framework, largely based on the Westminster 'first-past-the-post' model, inherently benefits the dominant party. In this system, the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins, rather than seats being allocated proportionally to the overall vote share. This was evident in the 2015 general election, where the PAP secured 69.9% of the popular vote but consequently won approximately 93% of the parliamentary seats. Furthermore, the requirement for candidates to run in teams, often including a minority group member in Group Representation Constituencies, can pose a challenge for smaller opposition parties struggling to field sufficient candidates.
Opposition Challenges and Constraints

Opposition parties in Singapore face several hurdles that have limited their ability to challenge the PAP's dominance effectively. The financial barrier to entry is substantial, with election deposits set at S$13,500, a figure significantly higher than in countries like Britain, and a candidate must secure over one-eighth of the votes to reclaim this deposit. Additionally, the prime minister retains the authority to call elections with short notice, a factor that can restrict opposition parties' preparation time, as seen with the nine-day campaigning period for the 2020 election. The opposition is also fragmented, with numerous parties often contesting but typically focusing on a limited number of seats and positioning themselves more as a check on PAP power rather than a viable alternative government. Legal challenges, including lawsuits from PAP members that have led to bankruptcy for opposition figures, and the application of a controversial fake news law have also been cited as factors that disadvantage opposition voices.

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Why has the PAP dominated Singapore politics since 1965?

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