Wong, 51, who is Deputy Prime Minister and current Finance Minister, was appointed two years ago as leader of the ruling PAP’s fourth generation (4G) team, effectively putting him on track to become the next leader as Prime Minister.
This comes after Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, previously appointed as 4G leader, stepped down in April 2021, citing his age and a lack of proper “runway” for the top job. Heng turned 63 this year.
The timing of the handover was first suggested at the end of last year, when Lee said he would hand over the baton to Wong before the next General Election, which must be held in November 2025.
While making the announcement in front of party members at the PAP convention, Lee also said that if all goes well, the transition will take place by the PAP’s 70th anniversary on November 21 this year.
THE PEOPLE’S DREAMS AS INSPIRATION: VICE PM WONG
In a video that is about one and a half minutes long, Wong asks Singaporeans to cooperate with him. He said, ‘Your dreams will inspire my actions’.
“Every ounce of my energy will be devoted to serving our country and people,” Wong said on Monday (15 April) shortly after the announcement of the leadership handover date.
Wong said when he was invited to enter politics in his late thirties, he had no idea that one day he would be asked to become the next Prime Minister.
“I agreed (in 2011) because I wanted to contribute to Singapore’s history,” said Wong, who is now 51 years old.
Wong will be the fourth Prime Minister of Singapore. Two years ago, he was appointed team leader of the ruling PAP’s fourth generation.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of responsibility. I promise to give my all in this endeavor,” he added.
He called on Singaporeans to share their ideas, passion and dreams, and work together with his team on the journey forward.
“Together we can build a bright future for all Singaporeans,” he said.
He asked for the trust, support and confidence of Singaporeans in realizing the country’s shared vision.
“As one united nation without distinction of race, language or religion, we will build a democratic society based on justice and equality,” said Wong.
“Let us move forward as one Team Singapore and together write the next chapter of our Singapore story.”
