Summary of The People's Manifesto
This General Election, the people of Singapore are coming together to demand urgent reforms for a more socially and economically just society. As political parties prepare to release their manifestos, we propose the People's Manifesto, created by Singaporeans from all walks of life. This manifesto highlights essential reforms to rebuild democracy, address the rising cost of living, improve working conditions, and make housing and healthcare accessible for all. It also emphasises the need for retirement adequacy and tackling the climate crisis. This manifesto reflects the shared priorities and goals of diverse communities that call Singapore home, focusing on achievable reforms that significantly improve the lives of ordinary Singaporeans. These demands are for the people, by the people, offered with the deep desire for everyone in this city to be able to thrive.
To (Re)build our Democracy
- Abolish repressive laws (POFMA, FICA, OCHA, ISA) and legalise peaceful public assemblies.
- Ensure free and fair elections by abolishing the GRC system and lowering the voting age to 18.
- Protect the independence of national institutions and remove state control over public information.
Arresting the Rising Cost of Living
- Provide adequate structural support for low-income families through COMCARE and review its eligibility criteria.
- Expand child and dependent care services and ensure milk security.
- Nationalise debt relief programs and regulate predatory lending.
An Economy that Works for Workers
- Implement a universal minimum wage reflecting decent living standards.
- Reform the Employment Act to include all workers and improve protections.
- Enact strong anti-discrimination legislation and ensure union independence.
- Introduce unemployment insurance and re-employment support.
Housing: Shelter, Not Commodity
- Establish Non-Open Market flats, price land for public housing as a public good.
- Allow all residents, including LGBTQ+ individuals and single parents, access to public housing.
- Improve rental housing conditions and accessibility, especially for single parents.
Ensuring Retirement Adequacy
- Ensure retirement adequacy through comprehensive policies.
- Address high elder employment rates and deficits in eldercare services.
- Provide sufficient CPF payouts and reduce reliance on seniors in the workforce.
Equitable Healthcare for All
- Ensure all patients are able to access the same ethical standards of care via the public healthcare system
- Expand the utilisation of public health schemes to cover our medical needs
- Ensure fair compensation and adequate working conditions for healthcare workers, including safe working hours, fair wages, and proper leave policies.
Tackling the Climate Crisis with Environmental Justice
- Set ambitious carbon pricing and reduction targets.
- Ensure transparency and inclusion in the journey towards net-zero emissions.
- Strengthen plastic regulation infrastructure and ensure a just transition.