PRIME MINISTER Lawrence Wong’s letter to all PAP MPs on the Rules of Prudence is about safeguarding Singaporeans’ trust and ensuring good governance for Singapore.
“The people have endorsed what we have done in our previous term, and given us a clear and strong mandate. The PAP has been entrusted with a heavy responsibility.” wrote PM Wong.
“Now we must discharge this mandate with conviction and purpose – to tackle the concerns that preoccupy Singaporeans, and to ensure that Singapore continues to thrive in an increasingly turbulent world.”
PM Wong expects high standards from all our MPs in terms of personal integrity and incorruptibility.
Here are four big takeaways on how these rules build a stronger political system for Singaporeans:
Ensuring clean and honest governance
The Rules of Prudence are clear. Engage public servants with respect. Never pressure them or seek to bypass proper processes.
PAP MPs must also separate business and politics. They must not use Parliament as an avenue to lobby for their businesses or clients.
All these ensure clean, honest governance, with decisions made not for personal gain, but for the public’s best interest.
Reflecting the concerns of constituents
PAP MPs are here to give their constituents — and other Singaporeans — a voice. They must reflect issues from the ground in Parliament. Importantly, PAP MPs must do so constructively and responsibly, and avoid lending credence to baseless gossip.
Our MPs should express their views forthrightly, even if they conflict with the Government.
“Bringing up pertinent issues and questions in a timely manner helps Ministers to put across the facts, explain the reasons for policies and decisions, and maintain public confidence in the openness and integrity of our government,” said PM Wong.
Honouring the institution of Parliament
A PAP MP must honour the institution of Parliament. When speaking up for issues of concern, he or she must research the issue thoroughly, engage diverse stakeholders, understand the pros and cons, and have sound arguments for improving policies.
“Be prepared to engage the Opposition, to clarify their interventions and scrutinise their ideas,” said PM Wong. “But always exercise good judgement — put your points across with clarity and purpose, address the issues and not the person, and do not get carried away playing to the gallery.”
This will allow Parliament to focus debates on better policies for Singaporeans.
Never break faith with Singaporeans
The Rules of Prudence call on PAP MPs never to break faith with the people; to address people’s worries and interests.
“This will help us persuade Singaporeans to support sound policies that serve their own long-term benefit,” said PM Wong “It will also enable the Government to stay connected with the ground and formulate better policies.”
A PAP MP must also conduct himself or herself with decorum and dignity. This ultimately maintains confidence in the Government.
“Always conduct yourselves with modesty, decorum and dignity. In this internet age, you will always be in the public eye,” said PM Wong.
“You must win respect, not popularity, to stay the course.”
