President Halimah Yacob not standing for re-election in 2023 Presidential Election

President Halimah Yacob announced on Monday (May 29) that she will not be standing for re-election this year.

She shared in a statement that the Presidential Election will be held “in a few months’ time”.

“After very careful consideration, I have decided not to stand for re-election.

“It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as the eighth President of Singapore for the past six years. The experience has been most inspiring and, at the same time, humbling.”

The President also added that she was aware of the “tremendous responsibilities” of the presidency when she took office in 2017, having “tried her best” to fulfil them.

She also stated that her aim was to help create a more caring and compassionate society.

“I am grateful to all Singaporeans for their trust, understanding and kindness during my tenure, and to the many community, social and business organisations, who have inspired me with their conviction and enthusiasm to build a better Singapore.”

Mdm Halimah also expressed that she has been fortunate to be given the chance to serve all Singaporeans regardless of race, language or social standing as the President of Singapore.

“I will forever cherish the fond memories of the people I have met, and the experiences acquired during my term. These will inspire me to continue contributing to our society and nation in other ways for as long as I am able to.

“I would also like to thank my husband and family for their unstinting support throughout my Presidency.”

President Halimah Yacob took office on Sep 14, 2017, for a six-year term. The next Presidential election must be conducted not later than three months before her term expires –  between Jun 13 and Sep 13, 2023.

The 2017 election was, for the first time, reserved for Malay candidates. This year, the election will be open to all races.