The SDA congratulates President-elect Tharman Shanmugaratnam on his victory in the first contested presidential election in twelve years.

We wish Mr Tharman the very best as he sets out in his new role to build an inclusive Singapore, serve as a custodian of our reserves, and protect the integrity of our public service.

Mr Tharman has promised to be an independent-minded president, and drawn comparisons between himself and well-respected former president the late Mr Ong Teng Cheong.

A vast majority of Singaporeans have trusted Mr Tharman with their vote.

We look forward to Mr Tharman being a courageous president with a heart for the people, and living up to the trust that Singaporeans have placed in him.

Desmond Lim Bak Chuan
Chairman
Singapore Democratic Alliance