Singapore’s Constitution allows ex-NMPs to transition into politics, minister clarifies

Former Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs) are allowed to join political parties and run in general elections after stepping down, Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam confirmed on Monday (March 31).

His remarks followed speculation that ex-NMP Syed Harun Alhabsyi might contest in GE2025 after he was seen with other Nee Soon GRC MPs at an event on March 27. Dr Syed, along with fellow former NMP Raj Joshua Thomas, had resigned from their positions on February 14. Thomas later stated on Facebook that he stepped down to contribute to the People’s Action Party (PAP).

Constitutional Provision
During a visit to Ahmad Ibrahim Mosque, Shanmugam recalled debating the NMP scheme in Parliament and witnessing its passage into law in 1990. He emphasised that the Constitution explicitly permits NMPs to resign, join political parties, and contest elections.

He noted that then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew had acknowledged the possibility of NMPs becoming ministers, underscoring that the law was always designed to allow their political participation.

“The final word is the Constitution itself. That was the intention when it was drafted. However, given that this was more than 30 years ago, many people may not be familiar with its provisions,” Shanmugam explained.

Maintaining Independence
Despite confirming that former NMPs can enter partisan politics, Shanmugam stressed the importance of ensuring that NMPs remain independent while in office. He highlighted that Parliament selects individuals of strong character who uphold their responsibilities with integrity.

“But the fact that they can contribute subsequently or prior was always understood and provided for,” he added.

Political Movements in Nee Soon GRC
Alongside Shanmugam at the mosque event were Nee Soon GRC MPs Carrie Tan, Derrick Goh, and Louis Ng, as well as Jackson Lam, the former branch chairman of PAP’s Hougang division.

However, MP Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim was absent. He was instead seen at a walkabout in the newly formed Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC on March 30. When asked about Faishal’s future in Nee Soon GRC, Shanmugam hinted at a likely shift.

“It’s difficult to provide a final answer since the decision rests with the CEC, but he has been spending a lot of time in Marine Parade, which may indicate what’s to come,” he remarked.