SINGAPORE — As the 2025 General Election approaches, the Singapore People's Party (SPP) is fervently working to prevent a three-cornered contest in its historical stronghold, Potong Pasir. However, Lim Tean, secretary-general of the People's Alliance for Reform (PAR), has made it clear that his party is fully committed to contesting in the same constituency.

In a recent Facebook announcement, Lim revealed that PAR intends to field candidates in two Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs) and eight Single Member Constituencies (SMCs), including Potong Pasir SMC. This area is particularly significant as it was the stronghold of opposition veteran Chiam See Tong, who held the seat for 27 years, making it a symbolic battleground for opposition parties.

During a walkabout in Toa Payoh, SPP secretary-general Steve Chia reaffirmed his party's dedication to Potong Pasir. "SPP has contested here for many years, and we simply cannot let the people down," he stated. Chia emphasized that he has had discussions with Lim regarding the upcoming election, maintaining SPP's firm stance on fielding a candidate in Potong Pasir.

Lim echoed these sentiments in a response to the media, highlighting that Potong Pasir remains a priority for PAR. "We are keen to contest there and hopeful for an agreement to prevent a three-way battle," he remarked, expressing confidence in the potential of PAR's candidate to reclaim the seat from the ruling People's Action Party (PAP).

The previous election saw PAP's Sitoh Yih Pin hold the seat after defeating SPP's Jose Raymond, securing 60.67% of the votes. The stakes are high for both parties as they prepare to capitalize on local sentiment and voter loyalty.

In addition to Potong Pasir, SPP has also declared intentions to contest in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, where they faced off against PAP's team in the last election. Chia walked through local markets and hawker centers, connecting with residents and distributing flyers ahead of the electoral showdown. The SPP is keeping its candidate slate under wraps until the nomination day, which has raised curiosity among supporters and analysts alike.

With the political environment heating up, both parties are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying election in Potong Pasir. As Lim Tean insists that PAR has a formidable candidate poised to challenge the PAP, the upcoming nomination day will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment for opposition dynamics in Singapore.

As the tides shift and election season approaches, the question is: will Potong Pasir return to its former glory as an opposition bastion, or will PAP hold its ground once more? Only time will tell!