Tan Cheng Bock, Secretary General of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), gestures at the party's launch in Singapore on August 3, 2019. - A new opposition party backed by the estranged brother of Singapore's prime minister was launched on August 3 in a fresh challenge to the government as speculation mounts elections could be called soon. (Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP) / The erroneous mention[s] appearing in the metadata of this photo by Roslan RAHMAN has been modified in AFP systems in the following manner: [Progress] instead of [Progressive]. Please immediately remove the erroneous mention[s] from all your online services and delete it (them) from your servers. If you have been authorized by AFP to distribute it (them) to third parties, please ensure that the same actions are carried out by them. Failure to promptly comply with these instructions will entail liability on your part for any continued or post notification usage. Therefore we thank you very much for all your attention and prompt action. We are sorry for the inconvenience this notification may cause and remain at your disposal for any further information you may require. (Photo credit should read ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)Tan Cheng Bock, Secretary General of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), gestures at the party's launch in Singapore on August 3, 2019. - A new opposition party backed by the estranged brother of Singapore's prime minister was launched on August 3 in a fresh challenge to the government as speculation mounts elections could be called soon. (Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP) / The erroneous mention[s] appearing in the metadata of this photo by Roslan RAHMAN has been modified in AFP systems in the following manner: [Progress] instead of [Progressive]. Please immediately remove the erroneous mention[s] from all your online services and delete it (them) from your servers. If you have been authorized by AFP to distribute it (them) to third parties, please ensure that the same actions are carried out by them. Failure to promptly comply with these instructions will entail liability on your part for any continued or post notification usage. Therefore we thank you very much for all your attention and prompt action. We are sorry for the inconvenience this notification may cause and remain at your disposal for any further information you may require. (Photo credit should read ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Tan Cheng Bock, chairman of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), calls out government for scaremongering over US tariffs ahead of upcoming general election (GE2025), while his party launches a bold manifesto focusing on GST cuts and political reforms. (Photo: ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

“Don’t just make statements of this kind and scare everybody,” said Tan Cheng Bock, Chairman of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), accusing the government of using the newly announced US tariffs to instil fear in voters ahead of the upcoming general election (GE2025).

The remarks came as PSP unveiled its bold 2025 manifesto, which promises comprehensive reforms, including a rollback of the GST, housing reforms, and enhanced political transparency.

As opposition parties gear up for the election, PSP is positioning itself as a credible alternative to the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP).

At the party’s manifesto launch at its Bukit Timah headquarters, PSP rolled out a sweeping set of over 60 policy proposals aimed at addressing the key concerns of Singaporeans – cost of living, housing, and wages.

“Progress for All,” as the manifesto is titled, calls for significant changes, including reducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 9 per cent to 7 per cent and exempting essential items such as rice and milk formula.

In an effort to combat the rising costs of living, PSP also proposes a rent control framework for commercial properties and new governance reforms, such as mandatory asset declarations for MPs and a proposal to abolish the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system.

The manifesto reflects PSP’s stance as a constructive opposition, offering well-researched, people-centred solutions, including reforms in healthcare, education, and worker protections.

Tan emphasised that these proposals are designed to create a more transparent, accountable government and ensure that the needs of ordinary Singaporeans are at the forefront of policy discussions.

He also highlighted that the party’s reduced candidate slate for GE2025 would focus on constituencies where they have seen strong support in the past, such as West Coast-Jurong West and Chua Chu Kang GRCs.

In contrast to the ruling PAP, which has warned of the economic repercussions of the US tariffs, PSP argued that the government’s reactions are an attempt to “scare” voters into sticking with the status quo.

“This call by the government ministers about the tariff, in my opinion, is partly to instil fear in the voter,” Tan remarked, suggesting that such warnings are designed to make Singaporeans see the PAP as the “safe bet.”

As GE2025 approaches, other opposition parties are also making strategic moves.

The Singapore United Party (SUP), making its electoral debut, will contest Ang Mo Kio GRC, where a three-cornered fight is anticipated.

The National Solidarity Party (NSP) will maintain its focus on Sembawang GRC, where it plans to engage in a competitive battle against the PAP and other opposition parties like the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP).

Meanwhile, Red Dot United (RDU) is preparing for a contest in the newly formed Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, introducing potential candidates to the public.

RDU’s core message centres around giving voters more control over their lives, promising to address financial concerns and economic inequality.

The Workers’ Party (WP) is also actively engaged, showcasing a long-term vision for Sengkang Town with over 90 proposed improvements.

Their master plan highlights their commitment to local development while offering a sustainable alternative to the PAP’s policies.