Singapore’s deputy leader Lawrence Wong was sworn in as the country’s fourth prime minister on Wednesday. A carefully planned political succession was aimed to ensure the continuity and stability of the Asian financial hub.
Wong, 51, a US-trained economist, succeeds Lee Hsien Loong, 72, who quit after two decades. Lee’s stepping down marked the end of a family dynasty led by his father Lee Kuan Yew, the charismatic first ruler of Singapore who transformed the colonial trading outpost into a prosperous, business-friendly country during his 31-year reign.
A civil servant turned politician, Wong rose to prominence while coordinating Singapore’s successful fight against COVID-19. However, he was not the first choice for the prime minister.
Former central bank chief and education minister Heng Swee Keat was anointed as the successor but he withdrew his nomination in 2021. Wong was then tapped by the ruling People’s Action Party in 2022 to fill the void and was quickly promoted to deputy prime minister.
“I will certainly strive to be a leader who is strong, kind and decisive. And I will do my best to build a Singapore where everyone can realize their full potential,” Wong said on social media earlier this month.
Wong’s rise to the top was carefully planned by the PAP – one of the oldest political parties in the world and known for its clean and efficient governance – and will not change the dynamics in this small country of around 6 million people.
Wong has retained the Cabinet and held onto his finance portfolio as he prepares for his first big test in general elections due by 2025 but widely expected to be called this year. Before taking office, he promoted Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong as one of two deputy premiers. The other deputy is Heng.
Wong retained the cabinet and his finance portfolio as he prepares for his first major test in a general election scheduled for 2025 but expected to be called later this year. Before taking office, he promoted Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong as one of the two deputy premiers with the other being Heng. Lee will remain in office as senior minister, a path followed by all former premiers.
