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Singapore

Tharman Shanmugaratnam sworn in as Singapore's ninth President

Tharman Shanmugaratnam sworn in as Singapore's ninth President

Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam takes his oath at the Istana on Sep 14, 2023. (Photo: CNA/Jeremy Long)

SINGAPORE: Tharman Shanmugaratnam was sworn in at the Istana on Thursday (Sep 14) as Singapore's ninth President, two weeks after his landslide election victory.

Mr Tharman took his oath of office at the State Room of the Istana, in front of guests that included former presidents Halimah Yacob and Tony Tan, as well as members of the Cabinet.

Mr Tharman, a former Senior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, won 70.41 per cent of the vote in the Sep 1 election, including overseas ballots. Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song received 15.72 per cent of the vote while former NUTC Income Tan Kin Lian garnered 13.87 per cent.

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam inspecting the guard of honour as President-elect at the Istana on Sep 14, 2023. (Photo: CNA/Try Sutrisno Foo)

The role of the Singapore President includes being the custodian of the nation's past reserves and ensuring the integrity of its public service. He or she is also a symbol and unifier of a diverse and multi-racial Singapore. 

In his inauguration speech, President Tharman swore to be “scrupulous and independent” in making judgments on Singapore’s reserves.

He also promised to work with the government, community groups, voluntary organisations and the entire nation to strengthen Singapore’s multiracialism, and nurture a more inclusive society, with the “strong mandate” voters have given him.

“I will do my utmost to support initiatives that deepen the respect we accord to our fellow citizens, of all backgrounds and in every walk of life - the respect for all that is at the heart of our solidarity as Singaporeans," he added.

04:37 Min

Tharman Shanmugaratnam was sworn in at the Istana on Thursday (Sep 14) as Singapore's ninth President, two weeks after his landslide election victory. Lauren Ong with more.

Earlier, a farewell ceremony was held for Madam Halimah, whose six-year term in office ended on Wednesday.

Speaking at Mr Tharman's swearing-in ceremony, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singaporeans have chosen a candidate who is “eminently qualified for this high office”.

He added that the Sep 1 Presidential Election also showed that race was a “smaller factor now than it used to be” for Singaporeans.

The Prime Minister described Mr Tharman as “someone who not only has the ability, experience and stature to carry out his duties both at home and abroad, but also sound judgment and unquestioned integrity”. 

These are “all vital prerequisites for being President”, Mr Lee said.

Everything you need to know about the Singapore Presidential Election: cna.asia/pe2023
Source: CNA/gs

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