Introduction by CPI

Today, the younger generation all over the developing world – even where governments have done relatively well in meeting the challenges of socio-economic development – are subjecting their leaders to even more scrutiny than ever. From Beijing to Singapore to Tripoli, they are asking hard questions especially of who are the beneficiaries of the growth enjoyed by their societies; whether the trade-off in terms of the curtailment of rights in return for authoritarian stability has been worth it; and whether they should continue to support long-lived political elites that have clung to power through dubious means.

The disillusionment of this Singaporean below with the island republic’s PAP government in reminds us that the young will not be so easily placated as the older generation when it comes to asking them to give up democratic rights and freedoms. The message below is loud and clear and mirrors much of the discontent that is found amongst the young in Malaysia with our own government.

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A young Singaporean speaks her mind

Tuesday, May 2, 2006

Do We Owe Our Existence to the People's Action Party?

We have been hardwired since young to be grateful in everything to the People's Action Party.  We have been conditioned to accept the abrogation of our democratic freedoms as a necessary inconvenience for the sake of prosperity.  We have been primed to forgive any injustice committed by the ruling elite in the name of continued progress under the guidance of benevolent paternalism -- the government knows best.

I remember the issue being discussed countless times in class.  Whether in an honestly indignant manner, or in the form of a light-hearted jest, or even a sardonic diatribe, my peers and I have raised our protests against the form of rule present in Singapore to our elders.  Time and time again, I have heard the same answer: that is the sacrifice.  Freedom is less important than stability.  Stability has given us prosperity.

Now, in the heat of the elections, the same thing is once more on everyone's lips.  Freedom is less important than stability.  Stability has given us prosperity.  We owe everything to the PAP.  Without them, we wouldn't be here today.  After all, there was a time when people said that Singapore won't make it -- but we did!

Let's do ourselves the favour of honesty today, and ask if what the PAP accomplished for Singapore was really such a miracle.  Let's ask ourselves if it's been worth the sacrifice.

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