Channel NewsAsia: Workers' Party unveils manifesto, plans to contest 3 single wards & 4 GRCs

By Farah Abdul Rahim



The Workers' Party has unveiled its party manifesto and in the process also said it is going to contest in three single wards and four Group Representative Constituencies in the next General Election.

It is the first opposition party to release its manifesto ahead of the next General Election due by the middle of next year.

The party document details its policies from healthcare to labour, and contains proposals like unemployment insurance for those out of a job.

It also calls for the office of president to be reverted to its former ceremonial position and for one central agency to provide public transport for all.

The manifesto has not been updated since 1994.

Workers' Party Secretary-General, Low Thia Khiang, said: "Time for the renewal, that's the main reason and certainly the elections, that's another reason. We look at the issues seriously, explore policy options on many issues, state our positions and give our policy statements on certain government issues."

The Workers' Party said that in the next election, it is targeting the single wards of Hougang, Nee Soon East and Joo Chiat as well as 4 GRCs - Sembawang, East Coast, Ang Mo Kio and Aljunied.

Foreign Minister George Yeo, who is leading the PAP team in Aljunied, says he welcomes the challenge.

He said: "They wanted to compete in Aljunied the last time, although there were some problems with forms. I expect them to come back. They have been canvassing the ground sporadically. I think they will come back and I am not surprised."

The Workers' Party said it is aware the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) also has its eyes set on East Coast GRC.

Mr Low said he intends to talk to the DPP to prevent a three-cornered fight. - CNA/ir