Chiam See Tong

Chiam See Tong

The long-anticipated battle between the People's Action Party (PAP) and the Singapore People's Party (SPP) in Bishan-Toa Payoh Group Representation Constituency (GRC) is finally official, in a constituency that has not been contested since its formation in 1997.

Opposition veteran Chiam See Tong will lead Mr Benjamin Pwee, Mr Jimmy Lee, Mr Mohd Hamin Aliyas and Mr Wilfred Leung in contest against the incumbent PAP team of Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng, Education Minister Ng Eng Hen, Mr Hri Kumar, Mr Josephine Teo and Mr Zainudin Nordin.

Addressing the crowd of supporters from various parties - some of whom gathered near Deyi Secondary School as early as 7.30 am - Mr Wong said: "We know what we have done. This is an experienced team. We will examine clearly what the other party will offer you, and then you will make your choice wisely. I know you can choose."

Mr Chiam, who made his entrance with his team in a maroon Volkswagen Beetle, spoke haltingly as the crowd repeatedly chanted his name.

"We are a good team and Singaporeans understand the meaning of parliamentary democracy. Parliamentary democracy means transparency and accountability on the part of the Government," he told reporters. "And they have failed to do that. So the only way to make the Government more transparent is to vote in more Opposition."

Asked about his health, Mr Chiam said he has been taking good care of himself.

Chiam See Tong