"Now I LEE KUAN YEW Prime Minister of Singapore, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AND DECLARE on behalf of the people and the Government of Singapore that as from today the ninth day of August in the year one thousand nine hundred and sixty-five Singapore shall be forever a sovereign democratic and independent nation, founded upon the principles of liberty and justice and ever seeking the welfare and happiness of her people in a more just and equal society. " Even being a sovereign, democratic and independent nation is part of our nation's principles and founding fathers' vision and goals.
So why despite 40 years of nation building and independence, is Singapore lagging so far behind in democracy??
The author seeks to find out the underlying factors that contributed to such a lowly performance by democractic Singapore.
1. The way our ministers are being elected into parliament through the Group Representation Constituencies(GRC).
2. The government's control on the local media and press.
3. A dominant one-party presence in parliament.
4. The failure of the weak opposition to give the citizens of Singapore a more viable choice other than the ruling PAP government.
5. The continued mentality among Singaporeans that MM Lee is still helming the affairs of the state.
6. A lack of a national self-identity among young Singaporeans.
7. Singaporeans are more interested with their livelihood than working towards a truly democratic nation.
8. The lack of a vibrant and youthful political environment in schools and educational institutions to promote the exchange of ideas.WARNING: Unless all the obstacles are removed and eradicated, Singapore will always be a successful 1st world nation without a proper spirit and soul.
