Aljunied GRC has long been the Workers’ Party (WP)’s crown jewel — the first GRC won by the opposition and still its most symbolic stronghold. But as GE2025 approaches, the question is whether it will remain a fortress, or show cracks under the weight of recent controversies.
Since WP’s landmark win in 2011, Aljunied has seen its vote share swing, with a high of nearly 60% in 2020. Pritam Singh’s rise as Leader of the Opposition gave the GRC national prominence. But recent events have cast a shadow. From Singh’s perjury conviction — which he is appealing — to the 2023 resignations of Leon Perera and Nicole Seah over an undisclosed affair, WP’s image has taken a hit.
Even so, Aljunied’s long-standing residents remain divided. Some praise the party’s engagement and improvements to the estate. Others, tired of the scandals, feel the party has lost its way. With hot-button national issues like the cost of living and housing weighing heavily, the emotional equity WP built may be tested like never before.
The PAP, meanwhile, is fielding a fresh slate of professionally accomplished candidates. But many lack deep roots in the GRC, making their uphill climb even steeper. While they promise help for caregivers and low-income families, they’ll have to earn trust fast.
The WP’s next move remains closely watched. Will Mr Singh stay, or step out of his comfort zone and contest elsewhere like Low Thia Khiang once did?
One thing is clear: Aljunied will be a bellwether once again — not just for party fortunes, but for what Singaporeans expect from an opposition. Voters here aren’t just choosing MPs; they’re defining what accountability, credibility, and leadership look like in the next chapter of Singapore politics.
