Rather than Lawrence Wong’s choice of deputies, the post-GE Cabinet is the one to watch

SINGAPORE’S next prime minister’s choice of deputies was surprising in some respects, yet also entirely understandable, with some dubbing it a “safe” or even “conservative” choice.

The surprise is felt by those who expected a fourth-generation (4G) minister to be elevated to deputy prime minister (DPM), once Lawrence Wong relinquishes this role to become prime minister on May 15.

Instead, DPM Wong has chosen a successor not from his peers, but his predecessors: current Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong. Current DPM Heng Swee Keat will continue in his role.