Ever since 1991’s introduction of the elected presidency, presidential elections have typically occurred in August, as the last day of that month marks the end of each president’s six-year term. But that also meant campaigning would sometimes clash with National Day celebrations.
This year, if contested, the presidential election will be held in September instead. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Chan Chun Sing, announced the change today in Parliament to inform prospective candidates and the public. This revision ensures that campaigning activities (and the election itself) will not be going on at the same time as National Day festivities — for this year and future elections.
President Tony Tan’s term ends on August 31, and the Writ of Election will be issued towards the end of August, while polling day will be in September. An acting president will assume office in between, until the new president takes office.
Reader Interactions