Tharman vows to serve as unifying figure 

SINGAPORE: In a presidential candidate broadcast, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam said he will bring his “independence of mind” to the role of President if elected.

“As President, I will bring more than deep expertise and long experience,” he said.

“I also bring a more basic orientation: The independence of mind that I have held onto throughout my life, and my belief that we can make Singapore a fairer and better society. They are what I have been known for both within and outside government.”

The former Senior Minister is running in the Presidential Election against former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song and ex-NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian.

In the broadcast, Mr Tharman highlighted his years of experience as a politician who has engaged with people actively on the ground as well as his expertise in formulating financial policies as a civil servant and in the Cabinet.

The 66-year-old vowed to serve as a “unifying figure at home and to advance Singapore’s interests abroad.”

“I will also draw on my knowledge and reputation for independent thinking to fulfil the additional constitutional duties of the elected President – to safeguard our reserves and the integrity of the public service,” said Mr Tharman.

To unify the country, he wants to strengthen a culture of respect for all Singaporeans, he said.

This is something that cannot be achieved from the top down, so he intends to support initiatives on the ground that promote respect for every skill and job, the underprivileged, senior citizens, those with different views and political leanings, and more, said Mr Tharman.

“I speak from experience, and a long track record on the ground for all to see: Of connecting with people from all walks of life, constantly seeking to bridge differences in views and building community spirit,” said Mr Tharman, who was in politics for more than 22 years before resigning to run for President.