Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will be taking his year-end leave from December 19 to 31, as confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Office in a statement on December 18. During his absence, the responsibilities of the Prime Minister will be handled by Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean, followed by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong.
Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean will serve as the Acting Prime Minister from December 19 to 26. Teo, a veteran politician with extensive experience in various ministerial roles, is well-equipped to oversee the nation’s affairs during this period.
Following Teo’s tenure, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will assume the role of Acting Prime Minister from December 27 to 31. Wong, who is also the Finance Minister, has been a pivotal figure in Singapore’s economic and COVID-19 response strategies.
This arrangement ensures a seamless transition of duties and responsibilities at the highest level of Singapore’s government while Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is away on leave. The interim leadership is indicative of the robust nature of Singapore’s political system, where leadership responsibilities are effectively shared and managed among experienced members of the government.
The announcement comes after a year marked by significant events and challenges, including the ongoing management of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic recovery efforts. The temporary change in leadership is part of the usual practice in Singapore’s governance, ensuring continuity and stability in governmental operations.
Prime Minister Lee’s leave and the subsequent acting appointments reflect the well-established protocols within the Singaporean government for managing periods when the head of government is unavailable. The citizens of Singapore can expect the same level of dedication and governance during this transition period.
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