Debate on President’s speech: Sylvia Lim on building a parliament that the people trust

Key Concepts:

• Trust in Parliament
• World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index
• Accountability, Just Law, Open Government, Accessible and Impartial Justice
• Open Government
• Constraints on Government Powers
• Parliamentary Effectiveness
• Party Discipline vs. Duty to Constituents
• Balance of Power
• Good Governance

1. Introduction and Welcome:

• The speaker welcomes the 31 new Members of Parliament (MPs) entering their first term.
• Acknowledges the competitive nature of party politics and elections as a "zero-sum game."
• Emphasizes that after elections, MPs are entrusted to represent their constituents.

2. Measuring Parliamentary Effectiveness:

• Poses the question: How does one measure the effectiveness of a parliament?
• Refers to the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index as a respected benchmark.
• The WJP is described as an independent, multidisciplinary organization promoting the rule of law worldwide.
• The WJP assesses countries based on laws, institutions, norms, and community commitment to the rule of law.
• The WJP's four core principles are: accountability, just law, open government, and accessible and impartial justice.

3. Singapore's Ranking in the World Justice Project Index:

• In the 2024 overall ranking, Singapore is ranked 16 out of 142 countries.
• Singapore scores well on six of the eight sub-indicators.
• The two weaker areas are "open government" and "constraints on government powers."
• This mixed scorecard has been consistent for Singapore over the years.

4. Analysis of "Open Government" and "Constraints on Government Powers":

• "Open government" is assessed by factors like information sharing by the government, citizens' right to information, public accountability, effective complaint mechanisms, and empowerment of citizens to hold the government accountable.
• "Constraints on government powers" focuses on how far those who govern are bound by law.
• A key sub-indicator is whether government powers are effectively limited by the legislature (Parliament).
• Singapore's Parliament is ranked 104 out of 142 national parliaments in this area, second last among high-income countries.
• In contrast, Singapore's courts are ranked 17th, indicating they are seen as a stronger check on government power.

5. Introspection on Parliamentary Effectiveness:

• The speaker emphasizes that the rankings are not "gospel truth" but a point for introspection.
• Asks why there is an independent opinion that Singapore's Parliament is not effective in limiting government powers.
• Suggests that the imbalance of power in Parliament, with almost 90% of seats held by the ruling party, is a likely reason.
• Acknowledges that this imbalance is a result of the system design and Singaporeans' votes.

6. Duty to Constituents vs. Party Discipline:

• States that the government agenda is set by the ruling party, and party discipline requires ruling party MPs to support it.
• Argues that MPs' overriding duty is to Singaporeans, not their parties.
• MPs have a duty to speak for their constituents and hold the government to account.
• The government should share as much information as possible in Parliament.
• Singaporeans need to decide if the balance of power in the House should be changed.
• Opposition MPs are expected to take an independent line, question the government, and vote against proposals when necessary.

7. Example from the UK Parliament:

• The speaker recounts attending a parliamentary sitting in the UK House of Commons.
• Describes a scene where a minister explained an urgent matter related to policing a protest in London.
• Notes that the shadow minister from the Conservative Party asked for an assurance from the minister and stated he would accept it if given.
• Highlights the ability of political competitors to give each other credit and credibility.

8. Motivation for Public Service:

• Poses the question: Why are we in politics?
• Suggests that the main motivation should be a calling to serve the public in elected office.
• Hopes to build trust in Parliament during this term.
• Encourages MPs to start from the position that fellow MPs have good motivations, even if they disagree with their positions.

9. Conclusion:

• Reiterates that the system of government expects Parliament to play its role in ensuring good governance.
• Emphasizes that MPs are competitors but not enemies.
• States that the people have elected them to act on their behalf to ensure Singapore endures for the long term.
• Concludes that all MPs have a common cause: to work towards a Singapore built to last.

Key Concepts Explained:

• World Justice Project (WJP): An independent organization that measures the rule of law in countries worldwide.
• Rule of Law: A system in which all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced.
• Open Government: A principle of governance that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
• Constraints on Government Powers: Limits on the authority of the government, often enforced by the legislature and judiciary.
• Party Discipline: The practice of members of a political party voting and acting in accordance with the party's policies.
• Good Governance: Effective, accountable, and transparent management of public resources and affairs.

Main Takeaways/Synthesis:

The speech focuses on the importance of trust in Parliament and its role in ensuring good governance in Singapore. It uses the World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index to highlight areas where Singapore's Parliament could improve, particularly in limiting government powers. The speaker emphasizes the need for MPs to prioritize their duty to constituents over party discipline and calls for greater openness and accountability from the government. The example from the UK Parliament illustrates the possibility of political competitors working together constructively. The overall message is a call for MPs to work together to build a parliament that the people trust and that effectively serves the long-term interests of Singapore.