What's the role of the opposition?

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Apr 12, 2011
What's the role of the opposition?
Represent alternative voices well
THE opposition's role in a democracy is not to take over the government to form another one-party government ('Opposition as insurance? It'll cost you dearly, says DPM Teo'; last Friday).

The opposition provides insurance by ensuring that issues and policies are debated thoroughly with alternative ideas seriously considered before implementation.
For a democracy to be effective, the opposition does not have to form a new government; it simply needs to form a capable party which can represent alternative voices in a Parliament which seats members from two or more parties.
In this way, the expertise of the People's Action Party (PAP) and the alternative knowledge of the opposition can work together to give Singaporeans a better future.
The multi-party government in Belgium failed ultimately because of the language divide.
Singapore is a meritocratic society, where politics and economics are based on merit. So, it is possible to accommodate alternative voices in the government, with everyone working towards the same goal of achieving greater success.
A proportion of 15 per cent to 20 per cent of seats in Parliament may not necessarily be negative.
Instead it will serve to bring greater diversity and democracy to governance.
Singapore has come far since its independence, and the PAP deserves great credit for this. But it is time to trust its citizens to vote wisely and it is time to trust that A-team leaders can arise from different political parties and still contribute to the nation's growth.
Our nation should aim to build a truly democratic society, regardless of race, language, religion or political party.
Liu Mengqi (Ms)
http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_655610.html


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12Apr2011: What's the role of the opposition?