No one should enter politics for the money says PM Wong; HK principal fired for berating SAFRA guards files unfair dismissal claim: Singapore live news

Wong, who was closing the debate on Singapore’s political salary framework, believes a desire to serve must come before remuneration. “No one should enter politics for the money,” he said, adding that the PAP looks for candidates who genuinely want to contribute to Singapore.

PM Wong noted that potential political leaders may already have mortgages, children, elderly parents and other responsibilities based on their existing incomes. Entering public office involves disruption and sacrifice, he said, and the salary framework is intended to prevent the financial cost from becoming unnecessarily prohibitive.

He also rejected the suggestion that civil servants automatically receive more money when they enter politics, saying some take a pay cut and might have earned more had they remained in public service.

Recalling his own move into politics in 2011, Wong said he resigned shortly before reaching the 15 years of service needed to retain his pension. “No one told me, if you win, this is the position you will get. This is the remuneration package. No one. It was a complete leap of faith,” he said.

More on Singapore’s political salary debate, here.