Ng Chee Meng to Sit Out New Singapore Cabinet: PM Wong Calls It Temporary

Singapore's political landscape saw an unexpected turn today with the announcement that Ng Chee Meng, the secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Member of Parliament for Jalan Kayu, will not be included in the newly formed Cabinet. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed the matter, stating, "This is a temporary arrangement, and I look forward to having the Labour Chief being part of the Cabinet before too long." Ng Chee Meng's decision to forgo a Cabinet position is reportedly to allow him to focus on his responsibilities at NTUC and his constituency work. This decision is noteworthy given the traditional inclusion of the NTUC secretary-general in the Cabinet. The Prime Minister's statement suggests a temporary nature to this arrangement, indicating a potential future role for Ng Chee Meng in the government. The situation highlights the dynamic nature of Singaporean politics and the ongoing balance between labor interests and governmental responsibilities.