Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong recently announced his forthcoming resignation on May 15, ending his nearly two-decade-long tenure leading the country's government. This move aligns with the pre-planned leadership transition, with his deputy Lawrence Wong set to succeed him.

Lee's delayed departure stems from the COVID-19 pandemic and a hiccup in the succession plans. Taking office as Singapore's third Prime Minister on August 12, 2004, Lee had initially intended to step down earlier but extended his term due to these unforeseen circumstances.

In his Facebook announcement, Lee emphasized the significance of leadership transitions for any nation. He expressed confidence in Wong and the 4G team, acknowledging their efforts in gaining public trust, particularly during the pandemic. The Forward Singapore initiative, led by this team, aimed to refresh the social compact and outline a new national agenda, further solidifying their readiness for leadership.

The political succession within Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) began taking shape in 2018 when Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was initially considered the next in line. However, in April 2021, Heng withdrew his candidacy, citing age as a factor.

After a year of consideration, Finance Minister Lawrence Wong emerged as the successor, subsequently being appointed Deputy Prime Minister. At 51 years old, he is poised to take over as Prime Minister upon Lee's exit, following Lee's commitment in 2012 not to hold the position beyond the age of 70.

The transition marks a pivotal moment in Singaporean politics, signaling continuity and the next phase of leadership under Lawrence Wong's stewardship. Lee urged Singaporeans to support Wong and his team, emphasizing the collective effort needed to forge a brighter future for the country.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong recently announced his forthcoming resignation on May 15, ending his nearly two-decade-long tenure leading the country's government. This move aligns with the pre-planned leadership transition, with his deputy Lawrence Wong set to succeed him.

Lee's delayed departure stems from the COVID-19 pandemic and a hiccup in the succession plans. Taking office as Singapore's third Prime Minister on August 12, 2004, Lee had initially intended to step down earlier but extended his term due to these unforeseen circumstances.

In his Facebook announcement, Lee emphasized the significance of leadership transitions for any nation. He expressed confidence in Wong and the 4G team, acknowledging their efforts in gaining public trust, particularly during the pandemic. The Forward Singapore initiative, led by this team, aimed to refresh the social compact and outline a new national agenda, further solidifying their readiness for leadership.

The political succession within Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) began taking shape in 2018 when Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was initially considered the next in line. However, in April 2021, Heng withdrew his candidacy, citing age as a factor.

After a year of consideration, Finance Minister Lawrence Wong emerged as the successor, subsequently being appointed Deputy Prime Minister. At 51 years old, he is poised to take over as Prime Minister upon Lee's exit, following Lee's commitment in 2012 not to hold the position beyond the age of 70.

The transition marks a pivotal moment in Singaporean politics, signaling continuity and the next phase of leadership under Lawrence Wong's stewardship. Lee urged Singaporeans to support Wong and his team, emphasizing the collective effort needed to forge a brighter future for the country.