Promotions, hellos, and goodbyes in store
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced a couple of changes to the Cabinet yesterday (April 8). This is PM’s fifth reshuffle since the 2011 General Elections.
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Here is a quick summary of the merry-go-round: who’s in and who’s out.
1. Masagos Zulkifli
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Previously: Senior Minister of State for both Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs
Now: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office AND Second Minister for both Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs
Yup, Zulkifli will serve three appointments concurrently.
“He has performed well, both in his ministries and as an MP in Tampines.”
-Lee Hsien Loong
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2. Chan Chun Sing
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Previously: Minister for Social and Family Development
Now: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office AND Secretary-General of NTUC
Chan will take over the labour chief job from Lim Swee Say, who submitted his resignation from NTUC on March 30.
“Chun Sing will have much work to do building on what Swee Say has done, but I am confident that he is up to the task.”
-Lee Hsien Loong
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3. Tan Chuan-Jin
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Previously: Minister for Manpower
Now: Minister for Social and Family Development
Tan will take over his new role from Chan Chun Sing. He will hold two concurrent appointments until 4 May, when he gives up his Manpower Minister appointment.
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4. Lim Swee Say
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Previously: Secretary-General of NTUC
Now: Minister for Manpower AND Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office
Lim will replace Tan Chuan-Jin in the Manpower position.
“I am flowing ON from NTUC, but not flowing OUT of tripartism.”
-Lim Swee Say
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5. Lui Tuck Yew
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Previously: Transport Minister
Now: Continues as Minister for Transport AND becomes Second Minister for Defence
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Special mention of Malay presence in the Cabinet
With the promotion of Masagos Zulkifli, there will now be two Malay ministers in the Cabinet. According to Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, the other Malay minister, this marks the “progress of the Malay community”.
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Netizens vs Lui Tuck Yew
Lui is not the most popular minister around now, especially with recent gaffes over the incessant train breakdowns and transport fee hikes. In case you forgot, the latest fare hikes came into effect on 5 April.
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Ok la, we will end with a positive comment.
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We are sure too.
An impending election?
If these ministers can step up their game (especially Lui Tuck Yew) and perform well, perhaps PAP will see better results in the next General Elections.
And obviously, that’s what PM Lee Hsien Loong wants.
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With reference to Channel NewsAsia, Asiaone, TODAY
