1966 Parliamentary By-election (March)

The March 1966 parliamentary by-elections were held to fill three vacant seats in Singapore’s Parliament. These resignations followed internal conflicts within Barisan Sosialis and marked a continuation of the political shifts and tensions that characterized Singapore’s early years as an independent republic.

Background

The vacancies arose after three Barisan Sosialis Members of Parliament resigned, citing discontent with the leadership of party chairman Dr. Lee Siew Choh:

1. Chio Cheng Thun: Resigned on 8 January 1966 and was subsequently expelled from Barisan six days later.
2. Kow Kee Seng: Resigned alongside Chio Cheng Thun on 8 January 1966 and faced expulsion from the party on the same timeline.
3. S. T. Bani: Resigned from both his parliamentary seat and Barisan on 9 January 1966 while still in detention. He was released a month later and announced his retirement from politics.

The resignations underscored internal divisions within Barisan Sosialis, weakening the party’s influence in Parliament.

By-Elections

The People’s Action Party (PAP) fielded candidates in all three constituencies. Notably, the PAP candidates won uncontested, a scenario not seen since the Legislative and City Council by-elections of 1952 and 1953, respectively.

Election Details

• Writ of Election Issued: 23 February 1966 (Wednesday)
• Nomination Day: 1 March 1966 (Tuesday)
• Swearing-In Ceremony: 21 April 1966 (Thursday)
• Electorate: 36,573
• Election Deposit: $500

Significance

The March 1966 by-elections were significant for several reasons:

1. Barisan Sosialis Decline: The resignations and uncontested victories highlighted the continuing fragmentation and decline of Barisan Sosialis as a political force in Singapore.
2. PAP Dominance: The uncontested wins further solidified PAP’s political dominance, signaling broad support for its governance during a critical period of nation-building.
3. Political Stability: The lack of contest reflected the diminishing opposition against the PAP in Parliament, contributing to a period of relative political stability as Singapore consolidated its independence.