Singapore Holds Early General Election Amid COVID-19... 'Ruling Party Expected to Lead'

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] An early general election was held in Singapore on the 10th.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

In this election, the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and 10 opposition parties, a total of 11 parties, are competing for 93 seats. Although the PAP is generally expected to win the election, voter turnout and other factors are seen as variables. Analysts suggest that if voter turnout is low in this election held amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it could also be interpreted as an indicator reflecting public sentiment.

Voting is from 8 a.m. (9 a.m. Korean time) to 8 p.m., and the election results are expected to be announced around 10 p.m.

For this election held during the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore has provided hand sanitizers and disposable gloves at all polling stations.

To reduce contact between voters in this election, Singapore increased the number of polling stations from 880 to 1,100. Additionally, polling stations will require voters to maintain distance and have installed thermometers. Voters must have their temperature checked at thermometers installed at the polling station exits and must not exceed 37.5 degrees Celsius to be allowed to vote. Those with higher temperatures will not be permitted to enter the polling station.