By Chen Lin

SINGAPORE (Reuters), – Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has named Lawrence Wong, his chosen successor and finance minister, as his deputy. He will be taking over the role of leader for the City State.

Wong (49) was elected in April to be the leader of the People’s Action Party’s fourth generation team, however, it remains unclear when the change will take place in the ruling party.

Lee (70) previously stated that Wong would be his successor either before or following the 2025 general election.

The next generation of leadership is emerging. Lee posted Monday on Facebook that he asked everyone for their full support in this crucial transition to get Singapore out of the current pandemic.

Monday’s announcement featured the transfer of several political office-holders into different ministries.

An official statement stated that Wong, the Singapore COVID taskforce leader, will keep his position as finance minister while also serving as deputy pm. If Lee’s absence is unexpected, Wong would be his replacement.

Since 1965, Singapore is governed by PAP. Leadership successions are usually carefully thought out.

Felix Tan of Nanyang Technological University was a political analysis and stated that Wong’s selection would allow for a more seamless transition to the top, though this is not likely to happen.

He stated that this would give him more time to familiarize himself with the role and give him the opportunity to create a new Cabinet or to be part of the decision-making process for forming one.

I don’t think that PM Lee will be stepping down any time soon. We might see the end of the year, or maybe two years. This will help us get closer to next general elections.