“Lawrence Wong to Assume Role as Singapore’s Prime Minister in May “

Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, 51, is set to become Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister on May 15, 2024. Wong will be officially sworn into office at 8 p.m. that day. In a statement on Monday (April 15), Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong confirmed his intention to step down in a month’s time and will formally recommend Wong’s appointment to the President.

Prime Minister Lee noted that this transition is a pivotal moment for the nation. “Lawrence and the 4G team have earned the people’s trust, especially through the challenges of the pandemic,” he said. Lee also praised the Forward Singapore exercise, through which Wong and his team have collaborated with citizens to develop a new national agenda.

In a personal update, Wong expressed his gratitude, stating, “I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty. Together, we can create a future that shines brightly for all Singaporeans.”

PM Lee, 72, had announced his intention to retire by November 2024, ahead of the next general election, which must occur by November 2025. Wong’s leadership was solidified in April 2022, when he was endorsed by the People’s Action Party (PAP) as the head of its fourth-generation team, a decision backed by all government MPs. Wong emerged as the top choice with support from 15 out of 19 stakeholders, which included Cabinet ministers.

Wong’s background includes a strong foundation in economics. After completing his studies in the United States, he served in various roles in Singapore’s civil service. His entry into politics came in 2011, and his ascent has been marked by his roles as Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Minister for National Development, and most recently, Finance Minister. Wong also co-chaired the Covid-19 Multi-Ministry Taskforce, gaining public recognition for his leadership during the pandemic.