GRCs serve PAP's self-interests: WP chief

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NEWS

Apr 30, 2011

GRCs serve PAP's self-interests: WP chief

By Kor Kian Beng

Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang launched an impassioned attack on the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system on Friday night, saying that it serves the People's Action Party's (PAP) self-interests and not the voters'. -- ST PHOTO: SAMUEL HE

WORKERS' Party (WP) chief Low Thia Khiang launched an impassioned attack on the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system on Friday night, saying that it serves the People's Action Party's (PAP) self-interests and not the voters'.

He said the mega constituencies have become the ruling party's weapon to block the opposition from entering Parliament and have denied Singaporeans the chance to vote for years.

'Let me tell you, if no opposition is able to break through the GRC, you will be forever shackled by the system. The PAP will continue to govern, and to bully you without having to account to you all,' Mr Low told a rally at Aljunied GRC, where he is leading a five-member heavyweight team in a bid to shift the tide to the opposition.

At Friday night's rally, Mr Low also sought to explain why he is leaving the Hougang single-seat ward that he has held for 20 years to contest in Aljunied GRC.

Taking his place in his old stronghold is WP candidate Yaw Shin Leong, who is facing the PAP's newcomer Desmond Choo.

The opposition veteran said his real aim is to make a breakthrough for the opposition by gunning down a GRC, something that no opposition parties have succeeded.