Singapore’s Democracy Requires Integrity, Courage, and Competent Leadership: Indranee Rajah

Singapore’s parliamentary democracy is not solely reliant on legal frameworks but requires integrity, courage, and “the right people” in office, according to Leader of the House Indranee Rajah. Speaking in Parliament on February 27, 2026, Rajah cautioned that Singapore is not immune to the democratic strains observed globally.

Global Democratic Challenges

Rajah highlighted a growing sense that democratic systems are under siege in several long-established democracies. She noted the erosion of trust in institutions and instances of compromised or attacked systems. She identified key symptoms of democratic decline, including polarisation, populism, political contestation, and performative politics, observing these trends both within and outside parliamentary settings.

Singapore’s Resilience and Vulnerability

Although acknowledging Singapore’s relative stability, Rajah stressed the nation’s vulnerability to these same pitfalls. She attributed Singapore’s current strength to the high standards and fundamental principles maintained by successive People’s Action Party (PAP) governments. However, she warned that maintaining this stability requires constant vigilance, stating, “It takes very little to receive onto the slippery slope.”

The Role of Parliamentarians

Rajah emphasized that laws and the rule of law are foundational but insufficient on their own. She asserted that safeguarding democracy depends on parliamentarians acting honorably, with integrity, and demonstrating courage and accountability when issues arise. She called for parliamentarians with “competence, commitment and conscience on both sides of the House.”

Competence in Governance and Opposition

Specifically, Rajah outlined the require for competent individuals in both government and opposition roles. In government, she stressed the importance of understanding governance fundamentals and effectively running the country. For the opposition, she called for competence in understanding issues, asking pertinent questions, and upholding the same standards of integrity and accountability as the government.

Commitment to National Interest

Rajah concluded by emphasizing the need for parliamentarians who are committed to putting the country’s interests before party politics.

Addressing Declining Birth Rates

In a separate address on February 26, 2026, Indranee Rajah announced she will chair a workgroup to address declining marriage and parenthood rates in Singapore, which reached a historic low of 0.87 in 2025 The Straits Times. The workgroup will focus on a “society-wide reset” to encourage marriage and parenthood, and will examine how workplaces can better support families Mothership. Netizens have expressed skepticism about the proposed “reset,” citing the financial and social challenges faced by young families in Singapore STOMP.

Safeguarding Parliamentary Democracy

Speaking on February 27, 2026, Indranee Rajah also cautioned that safeguarding parliamentary democracy requires integrity, courage and ‘the right people’ Channel NewsAsia.