Singapore

October 2005 | Risk Summary

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is planning no overhaul of the presidential system, despite the uncontested re-election of incumbent president S.R Nathan to a second six-year term in September, following the disqualification of three other candidates. Although the post has evolved from a purely ceremonial role to an elected office empowered to veto government budgets and grant clemency to criminals, these powers are rarely used and strict eligibility criteria remain for the contenders. The decision to maintain the current system has sparked criticism for backtracking on government promises of political openness, and could hurt the ruling People's Action Party in

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