
This morning ST front page headline "Record number apply to be NMPs". The political landscape is changing, Singaporeans want Elected representatives in the house not Nominated. The scheme introduced in 1990,though entrenched now, should be reviewed. The original idea, to invite non partisan Singaporeans to give their views in parliament, now, include representatives from seven functional groups. This call for sectarian representation can be devisive as groups not represented will get offended. The danger lies when people with connection to religious bodies ,race group,culture etc are invited. As there are only 9 seats those not included will be unhappy. I have opposed this NMP scheme and voted against it when first introduced. Soon a Parliament committee chaired by Speaker of the House will decide who amongst the 50 will be the "alternatve voice of the people." A high powered Parliament Committee deciding the peoples' alternative voice? Singaporeans voted in their MPs to voice their concerns in parliament. Now Parliament nominates a 9 member team to represent the people, or vested interest groups?
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