A moving speech by Chiam See Tong you must see

All my life I have felt that the most sincere and dedicated opposition leader was the late J B Jeyaretnam. He dedicated his whole life to Singapore's politics. He could have had a life of luxury as a lawyer. But he gave that all up, even became a bankrupt no thanks to Old Man Lee, and dedicated his life to a cause he believed in.

Up to last night, I refused to put anyone close to be compared to him, as far as dedication is concerned. However, that was to change when I came across Chiam See Tong's speech video.

After viewing his video, I realised why Chiam left Potong Pasir and moved to Bishan-Toa Payoh. He knows his health is not good and this may well be his last elections. If he stays at Potong Pasir, it would probably be his last term. After that, what would be next for the opposition cause?

By moving away from Potong Pasir, he has given the opposition a new lease of life, in the form of Mrs Chiam. She is still fit to run a few more elections unlike himself.

At the same time, by moving to Bishan-Toa Payoh, he may be able to capture a few more seats for the opposition. But if he does not, there's no loss anyway. After all, this would probably be his last term. On the other hand, if SPP captures it, it would be big boon for the opposition and open a new chapter in Singapore's politics - ie GRCs are no more safe havens for the PAP.

What struck me most in the video is Chiam's display of dedication and humility. In spite of his health, he plods on for what he believes in - ie giving Singapore a choice to choose an opposition.

He could have stayed comfortably at Potong Pasir and would have won hands down. Instead, he left that safe haven of his, leaving it for his wife to continue his work there, and offered himself to be sacrificed in PAP's den.

In spite of this, he claims no glory and even displays a high degree of humility. I cannot find the words to describe. I let the video below speak for itself.

It is said a picture is worth a thousand words. But a movie clip is worth a million. See it for yourself and feel his passion and dedication, that has moved some commentators (of the video) to tears.

SPP's Chiam See Tong at Hong Kah North rally


Now compare his above humble speech to arrogant MM's claim that he would look after Singapore for the next five years!

A moving speech such that there is a reported incident that even a 60 year old man shed tears when he shook Mr Chiam's hand after his speech.

Note that when there was a pause in his speech, someone shouted, "You don't have to speak, we will vote for you!" - probably concerned about Chiam that he should not exert himself too much.

Chiam could have stayed in Potong Pasir or even retired a comfortable life. But he carries on his work to give Singaporeans a choice to choose, in spite of his obvious flailing health.

A true dedicated opposition leader.