Sengkang’s election pits Workers' Party against PAP

The upcoming election in Sengkang, Singapore, is expected to be closely contested. The opposition Workers' Party (WP) won the constituency by a narrow margin in the last election and will defend their position against the ruling People's Action Party (PAP). Residents of Sengkang are concerned about various issues, such as rising living costs and the credibility of candidates. Many voters say they will decide based on the quality of candidates and their responses to local concerns. Sengkang GRC was formed in 2020, and the WP’s team then won with just over 52% of the vote. This time, they are likely to have an advantage due to their established presence in the community. Political analysts agree that the PAP is motivated to regain this constituency, especially since losing twice may harm their long-term prospects. Recent controversies have affected the WP’s image. One significant event was the resignation of MP Raeesah Khan, which has left residents wondering who will replace her. The WP is expected to nominate a new candidate, with Mr. Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik being a possible choice. He has been active in community engagements and is seen as a relatable candidate. The PAP has made changes to its slate, including a younger and more diverse team, hoping to connect better with the demographics of Sengkang. Dr. Lam Pin Min leads the PAP team and has been active in the area for many years. However, some analysts believe that the PAP may need to field a more prominent candidate to prove they are serious about winning back Sengkang. Residents express varying levels of concern about local issues such as food costs and job prospects. Many young voters worry about the future and are looking for parties that address both local and international problems. Social media plays a crucial role in the campaigns, with both parties actively engaging residents online. The WP has conducted surveys to understand community needs and has made several infrastructure improvements since taking office. Overall, the election in Sengkang will depend on how well each party can connect with voters and address their pressing concerns.