Shifting sands at the ballot box

WP PULLS AWAY FROM THE REST

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strongly aligned with the SDP and PSP," said Prof Theseira.

He said the PSP is in a worse situation than the SDP, as the latter has developed a consistent policy platform that is left of centre and coherent politically.

"Who is the next generation of the PSP, and what policies or political differentiation will they seek? I don't think the voters know that," said Prof Theseira.

Adding to the renewal woes for smaller opposition parties is the increased difficulty of attracting strong candidates, given competition from the WP.

In addition, the robust performance of independent candidates this election might inspire more to strike out on their own in single-member constituencies.

"There would certainly be little point to them joining a marginal party instead of going it alone, if their desire is more to have a platform and give voters a choice, rather than actually get elected," said Prof Theseira.

He added: "Personally, I don't see any realistic hope for smaller parties to attract high-quality candidates unless they have a particular distinct policy differentiation."

Some key policy proposals put forth by opposition parties this election include reversing the goods and services tax hike, implementing a universal minimum wage and making housing more affordable by removing land costs.

Analysts said the election results suggest the electorate did not view such alternative policies as feasible, and that they recognise the need to be prudent, think long-term and consider trade-offs.

SMU's Prof Tan said voters want viable alternative suggestions that are sustainable fiscally.

"Voters don't want to be infantalised by pie in the sky policy proposals, and expect parties and candidates to show that the sums will add up," said Prof Tan.

Given the magnitude of the task ahead, some analysts predict that some of the smallest opposition parties may fade away.