Recent spats with the international press have highlighted the government's sensitivity to what it sees as irresponsible or libelous criticism. In response, Lim was told to enter the political arena if she wanted to debate public policy. Such treatment, some say, leaves many unsure of how far they can go in publicly assessing the government's actions. Only four out of 81 MPs do not belong to the ruling party. But Soin thinks political participation ought to extend beyond Parliament.
Voters do make their voice heard.
Although the PM was one of the top vote-getters, the elections also saw a PAP minister of state ousted and three more opposition MPs elected. Most do not feel that Goh is solely responsible for the erosion. George Yeo Yong Boon and Home Affairs Minister Wong Kan Seng were all major architects of PAP election strategy and can't totally escape responsibility. I think they want an opposition, and to show that while they support the government, it doesn't have complete carte blanche. For just that reason, the opposition is looking forward to testing the popular will.