Here’s a look at what we might expect based on the 2011 Presidential Election, when it was last contested:
QUALIFYING TO RUN
Not everyone can run for President. Before nominations, potential candidates first need to pass the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) by submitting forms to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility.
The strict criteria that presidential hopefuls must meet include having held a senior public office or helmed a company that has at least S$500 million (US$370 million) in shareholders’ equity for at least three years.
These are listed in the Constitution of Singapore, including a clause that says the PEC has to be satisfied the potential candidate is a person of integrity, good character and reputation. The contender must also be at least 45 years old, and not belong to any political party.
In 2011, the Certificate of Eligibility forms were available from Jun 1.
WRIT OF ELECTION
The race officially kicks off when the Writ of Election is issued, and aspiring candidates have three days from then to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility.
In 2011, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong issued the Writ on Aug 3 and Nomination Day was set on Aug 17.
The PEC announced the potential candidates’ eligibility on Aug 11 and four met the threshold, out of six who had applied.