‘It’s not just about the reserves’
Following the ruling People's Action Party's (PAP) worst performance since Singapore's independence in the May elections, the Prime Minister constituted a salary review committee to reassess ministers' pay.
Since 1994, the government has pegged ministers' and senior civil servants' pay to the private sector. The benchmark is currently set at two-thirds the median incomes of the top eight earners in each of six professions. The President's remuneration follows accordingly.
The formula has resulted in ministers being paid millions, with the President's annual salary — which was revised upwards in March — rising to a whopping S$4,267,500.
Chaired by the well-known Mr Gerard Ee, the review committee is expected to recommend a lowering of the remuneration ministers receive. Consequently, the President's salary is also expected to be revised downwards.
The Prime Minister's decision to have the salaries reviewed goes beyond just assuaging discontent among Singaporeans. It goes right to the heart of the government's moral authority to lead, a point which not a few Singaporeans have raised.
With the President similarly being paid so generously, the moral authority of the highest office in the land is also in danger of being eroded. This has far-reaching consequences for Singapore society if allowed to happen. Imagine a President and a PM who, instead of gaining the people's respect, are the sources of resentment.
Before 1991, the year the Elected Presidency was passed into law, the President's role was a ceremonial one. Executive power rested with the Cabinet and the Government of the day. On 1 February 1991, however, amendments to the Constitution to grant the President more powers were passed by Parliament. Among these, the President is endowed with the responsibility to safeguard the reserves and the integrity of the Public Service.
Since then, the elected President's role of being a watchdog on the reserves has received much attention. Indeed, it has become the overarching responsibility of the office which most Singaporeans identify it with. The presidency has become, or is in danger of being perceived as, nothing more than a sort of an auditor or accountant general, albeit one with other state duties.
Such perceptions would not only be undesirable but would also make a mockery of the Istana. Historically, Singapore's presidency has represented the finer — or higher — values which society holds dear. Humility, service, compassion, honesty, charity, even hope, especially at times of crises. To perceive the President's role as that of simply a financial watchdog would thus be most unfortunate.
Singapore's first four Presidents who took office before 1991 — Yusof Ishak, Benjamin Sheares, Devan Nair and Wee Kim Wee — were highly revered and respected statesmen.
The late President Wee, in particular, is even today fondly remembered as one whose humble and compassionate ways inspired many. He was and is, many would agree, the epitome of what the Presidency represents.
Many will recall the affinity he had with the common folks. His sense of charity and compassion, and at the same time carrying the solemn responsibilities of his office, was inspiring.
Personally, I will always remember the many times President Wee visited the downtrodden, the sick, the poor and those whose hearts were in pain. He, in effect, had always wrapped his arms around these and comforted, consoled and tried to lift their spirits. This is why, till this day, President Wee is recognized and loved as the "People's President."
As we prepare for the upcoming contest in the Presidential Elections and consider the candidates, let us look for one who would not only be capable of safeguarding our financial kitty but one who would, more importantly, be capable of inspiring Singaporeans to higher ideals.
The Elected President contest is not just about protecting the reserves. It is also about things just as, if not much more, important. Let's not lose sight of this.
Andrew is the co-founder and current editor-in-chief of socio-political website The Online Citizen. He writes frequently on issues which are close to his heart, particularly those affecting the less fortunate, and on politics.
