SINGAPORE — Likening Members of Parliament (MPs) to middlemen between the Government and citizens, Mr Benjamin Pwee said their focus should be airing constituents’ concerns before trying to explain policies, as he took a potshot at his team’s competition in Bishan-Toa Payoh Group Representation Constituency.

While train breakdowns have stayed in the public spotlight in the past four years, Mr Pwee criticised his People’s Action Party opponent Josephine Teo for not speaking up for citizens. Mrs Teo is Senior Minister of State (Transport and Finance).

Speaking at a rally at Toa Payoh Stadium, Mr Pwee, who is part of a Singapore People’s Party (SPP) slate, said: “The role of MP is a person who understands the issues that you have, turns and faces the Government, and tells them (what) the issues that our constituents are not happy about, and where policy changes need to be made.

“There are times when the MP needs to turn and face the people, and represent the Government and explain the policies to you, but I think that must happen only after an MP first has heard you.”

Another candidate, Mr Law Kim Hwee, spoke about the plights of unemployed mature professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs), and suggested setting up a registry to help them find jobs.

“If you’re a PMET (and) you’re prepared to work for a lower pay, we form among ourselves a group and say, ‘Bosses, if you want to employ someone with experience ... but (is) prepared to accept lower pay, then come to us’,” said Mr Law, 55, a former marketing manager.

He also suggested establishing a pension scheme for all Singaporeans aged 65 and above, and pay them S$200 monthly.

Mr Pwee took to the stage after rally-goers were roused by a short speech by veteran opposition politician and SPP chief Chiam See Tong, who showed up with his wife to support the team. The 80-year-old, who was MP for Potong Pasir for 27 years, but is not contesting in this election, was greeted with loud cheers and applause when he arrived.

While he had initially planned to sit and speak, Mr Chiam, who suffered two strokes in recent years, went to the podium and delivered a 10-minute speech on Central Provident Fund issues. “Singaporeans must not stop asking the Government when they can pay back all the money that they’ve gotten back to the people of Singapore,” he said.

“I’m sorry I start and stop because of my sickness. Thank you very much. The people of Bishan-Toa Payoh forever,” he said, drawing raucous cheers from the crowd as he raised his fists.

SPP chairman Lina Chiam, who is running in Potong Pasir Single-Member Constituency, also took aim at transportation issues.

“The transport problem is only a symbol of all that is wrong with the PAP. But it’s also a red warning sign,” said the 66-year-old.

“I ask that tonight you support the team of Bishan-Toa Payoh the same way as you’ve placed your faith and trust in Mr Chiam.”

Winding up the three-hour rally, Mr Pwee said: “Every one of us here on stage ... is honoured to continue with Mr Chiam’s legacy. And the only way that this legacy can continue is if you put us in Parliament and continue the legacy and work of Mr Chiam.”