The Business Times
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THINKING ALOUD

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

While some were surprised that a 4G leader was not promoted to DPM, there is precedent for choosing a more experienced minister

Janice Heng

Janice Heng

Published Wed, May 15, 2024 · 05:00 AM
    • Incoming prime minister Lawrence Wong's (centre) choice of Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong (left) and Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat as deputies has already been subject to various interpretations.
    • Incoming prime minister Lawrence Wong's (centre) choice of Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong (left) and Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat as deputies has already been subject to various interpretations. PHOTO: JASON QUAH, ST

    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.

    Thinking AloudSingapore politics

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