Joint Statement by SM Goh Chok Tong and MM Lee Kuan Yew

We have studied the new political situation and thought how it can affect the future. We have made our contributions to the development of Singapore. The time has come for a younger generation to carry Singapore forward in a more difficult and complex situation. The Prime Minister and his team of younger leaders should have a fresh clean slate. A younger generation, besides having a non-corrupt and meritocratic government and a high standard of living, wants to be more engaged in the decisions which affect them. After a watershed general election, we have decided to leave the cabinet and have a completely younger team of ministers to connect to and engage with this young generation in shaping the future of our Singapore.

But the younger team must always have in mind the interests of the older generation.  This generation who has contributed to Singapore must be well-looked after.

Press Secretary to Senior Minister
Press Secretary to Minister Mentor
Prime Minister's Office
14 May 2011