We are heading in the right direction where local politics is concerned. Not a false dawn as in 1991. I do agree with Kingrant on the need to have robust debates in parliament. Robust debates forces all MPs including those in the ruling party to reassess their own position when it comes to policies and legislation that are before them. Opposition MPs must also learn not to start from a position of compromise. Inquisitorial approach helps to force out the original premise and the intent behind a policy or a piece of legislation. This is a must as only then we can help deliver policies that work for all rather than help a few.
What is interesting for Singapore is that political debates are no longer found in Parliament alone. The public has now taken it outside as in the 6.9M white paper and that debate is more ferocious outside than inside. Very much helped by the online suite of blogs, forums and various other channels. My sense is that the outside debates will grow more intense and the Govt will have to address it rather than ignore them as in the past.
What is interesting for Singapore is that political debates are no longer found in Parliament alone. The public has now taken it outside as in the 6.9M white paper and that debate is more ferocious outside than inside. Very much helped by the online suite of blogs, forums and various other channels. My sense is that the outside debates will grow more intense and the Govt will have to address it rather than ignore them as in the past.
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