Lee Hsien Loong leads the People’s Action Party, which has governed Singapore since independence Singapore is going to the polls today in the most hotly contested general election in recent memory.
Politics in the tiny but hugely wealthy state have been dominated by the current ruling party since independence in 1965.
But a decision by opposition parties to co-ordinate more closely, and a huge rise in the use of social media, has created a greater sense of competition.
The issue dominating discussion is the economy.
Singapore is one of the safest, cleanest and wealthiest countries on the planet – something which should bode well for any incumbent government.
And in truth there is little doubt that the People’s Action Party, which has ruled since independence, will be returned to power.
But it is facing a tougher test in this election than ever before.
The many parties of the traditionally fragmented opposition have adopted a co-ordinated strategy which has allowed them to challenge almost every seat.
In fact the only uncontested constituency is that of Singapore’s founding father, Lee Kuan Yew.
In addition, the explosion of new media has opened up greater space for debate in a country where traditional platforms – TV, Radio and Newspapers – are strictly controlled.
That debate is focussed largely on the rising cost of living, house prices and jobs.
The gap between the super rich and those less well off is widening and there is evidence of growing resentment towards foreign workers.
The challenges facing the country are being discussed. Old orthodoxies are tentatively being challenged.
Which is why this election, in normally staid Singapore, is being hailed as the most exciting for a generation.
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