Politics in Singapore

Singapore has a distinct political culture, where the civil service and the politics are closely intertwined. Yet, on many occasions, the civil service has reiterated that it cannot be political, that in the end, it still has to obey the directions as laid out by the political leaders. 

That said, when we evaluate candidates, we may not have to look too closely at manifestoes and pledges; the qualities to look out for in candidates are highly personal ones; the ability for critical thinking and the insight required to critique policies and issues when raised; their capacity for compassion in serving the people; their integrity; and their ability to facilitate - because after all, MPs work in a team and decide together on issues.