Something unheard of before but certainly an emerging trend. Independent candidates realising that profile is such an important factor have been in talks with nearly all the parties. So much so that WP did the right thing and stepped away from the further discussions.
Here are some of the common demands
- to stand in SMC
- to have their own slate of candidates for GRC
The most interesting thing is that 3 of them did not join any party until the second round of negotiating had occurred among all the political parties to pre-select their contesting constituencies. 2 of them were still negotiating until last week.
The 3 main parties in demand were WP, NSP and SDP. But not SPP or RP. Looks like these people have done their homework.
Another 6 interesting candidates with attractive profiles have decided not to join or their demands were not accommodated. Yes, the figure is indeed 6. This does not include the number of recent graduates or those below the age of 25 who have approached a number of opposition parties to consider standing but were either not to sure or looking for guidance. The most impressive is that all were prepared to fund themselves.
If this trend continues, you can be assured that PAP will start setting draconian conditions for opposition parties to meet. A case in point is the totally unexpected slate of SDP candidates for Holland who have had no prior link to SDP. Don't be surprised if by the next elections, candidates other than independents are required to be party members for at least a year before they can contest under party banners.
The PAP has always relied on informants in all parties to provide intel. These cannot be achieved if party members are not aware of negotiations taking place with potential candidates who are not members.
Here are some of the common demands
- to stand in SMC
- to have their own slate of candidates for GRC
The most interesting thing is that 3 of them did not join any party until the second round of negotiating had occurred among all the political parties to pre-select their contesting constituencies. 2 of them were still negotiating until last week.
The 3 main parties in demand were WP, NSP and SDP. But not SPP or RP. Looks like these people have done their homework.
Another 6 interesting candidates with attractive profiles have decided not to join or their demands were not accommodated. Yes, the figure is indeed 6. This does not include the number of recent graduates or those below the age of 25 who have approached a number of opposition parties to consider standing but were either not to sure or looking for guidance. The most impressive is that all were prepared to fund themselves.
If this trend continues, you can be assured that PAP will start setting draconian conditions for opposition parties to meet. A case in point is the totally unexpected slate of SDP candidates for Holland who have had no prior link to SDP. Don't be surprised if by the next elections, candidates other than independents are required to be party members for at least a year before they can contest under party banners.
The PAP has always relied on informants in all parties to provide intel. These cannot be achieved if party members are not aware of negotiations taking place with potential candidates who are not members.
