Don't confuse issues in by-election: Desmond Choo

SINGAPORE: The People's Action Party's Hougang by-election candidate Desmond Choo on Thursday asked voters not to mix up the democratic process with the need for alternative voices in Parliament.

Mr Choo said that the by-election itself shows that Singapore's democracy was working.

He added that there were already five alternative voices in Parliament.

"This by-election is really about selecting a candidate that can best serve the long-term interests of the residents," he said.

"So do not mix up the democracy part with providing alternative voices and the real purpose of this by-election, which is that Hougang residents need somebody to take care of them."

Mr Choo was speaking to reporters during his house visits on Wednesday.

He stressed that he too, could be an alternative voice in Parliament who would bring up both local and national issues.

Since he is a unionist, he said he would raise issues such as education and the plight of low wage workers.

In a mailer distributed to residents, Mr Choo said his vision for Hougang is one where everyone shares a brighter future.

This includes making preschools more affordable and creating more family-friendly spaces, as well as improving job conditions for low and middle-income workers.

Mr Choo has not confirmed a date for his rally.