RDU Stands Firm on Alliance Exit, Introduces Potential Candidates

Red Dot United (RDU) has affirmed its decision to withdraw from the four-party alliance, according to Secretary-General Ravi Philemon. Speaking after a walkabout at Chong Pang Food Centre, Philemon emphasized that the party stands by its decision. The walkabout also served as an introduction to three potential candidates for the upcoming General Election. The food center is located in Nee Soon GRC.

RDU's departure from the alliance, known as The Coalition, which included the National Solidarity Party (NSP), the Singapore United Party (SUP), and the Singapore People’s Party (SPP), was announced on Saturday. The withdrawal stemmed from NSP's refusal to avoid a three-way contest with the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) and the People’s Action Party (PAP) in Sembawang GRC. RDU highlighted that NSP's stance contradicted the alliance's commitment to preventing multi-cornered fights.

Philemon stated that the right to contest should not compromise the strategic advantage of the PAP. He acknowledged differing perspectives among the involved political parties. RDU, however, has decided to proceed independently. The remaining members of The Coalition expressed disappointment at RDU's sudden exit, disputing RDU's claim that NSP had violated the alliance's principles. They stated that the alliance's agreement focused on mutual support to secure constituencies, not retreating under pressure. When asked about the possibility of more three-cornered fights, Philemon dismissed the question, reiterating RDU's commitment to opposition unity.

During the walkabout, RDU introduced three "team leads" for its Nee Soon GRC campaign, themed "Listening, Lifting, Leading." The potential candidates include company director Pang Heng Chuan, senior consultant Sharon Lin, and Dr. Syed Alwi Ahmad. They shared their perspectives on improving the lives of Singaporeans, addressing issues such as the cost of living and the need for compassion and clarity.

During the walkabout, the RDU team met two incumbent Nee Soon Members of Parliament (MPs) - Derrick Goh and Carrie Tan - and their volunteers, who were also conducting walkabouts in the area. Mr. Goh welcomed the contest with RDU in the upcoming election, stating that residents would have a choice. The opposition Progress Singapore Party (PSP) contested Nee Soon GRC during the last election.