GE2025 independent candidates Darryl Lo and Jeremy Tan seek nomination as NMPs

Two former independent candidates from Singapore’s May 2025 general election have set their sights on entering Parliament as Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs), offering what they describe as independent and alternative voices to national debate.

On 29 October, former Radin Mas candidate Darryl Lo told state media CNA that he had submitted his nomination documents online, showing a confirmation email of receipt.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Tan, who contested Mountbatten SMC, said he intended to do the same before the 6 November deadline.

The nomination process for NMPs began on 8 October and will be reviewed by an eight-member Special Select Committee chaired by Speaker Seah Kian Peng.

According to Parliament’s website, NMP applicants must be Singapore citizens aged at least 21, registered in the Register of Electors, residents in Singapore for at least 10 years, and proficient in one of the four official languages to participate effectively in debates.

Up to nine NMPs may be appointed. Candidates can be nominated by one of seven functional groups — such as labour or social service organisations — or by members of the public.

Each nomination requires a proposer, a seconder and at least four assentors who are registered voters.

Lo told CNA he submitted his application early because of upcoming national service reservist training.

He described the NMP role as “a different ball game” from that of an elected MP, as it does not involve running a town council but still allows for influence over national policy.

“I want the NMP seat to ensure that at least an ordinary youth’s voice is heard in Parliament and to push for policy changes that will benefit Singapore and Singaporeans,” he told CNA, adding that his supporters are all young voters.

He also highlighted his record in the 2025 general election, where he became the only independent in Singapore’s history to finish second in a three-cornered contest.

“It does seem to me that Singaporeans do value independence a lot,” he added, noting that recent resignations of NMPs who later joined political parties had affected public trust in the scheme.

Lo was referring to former NMPs Raj Joshua Thomas and Syed Harun Alhabsyi, both of whom resigned before completing their terms — the first such occurrence since the scheme’s inception.

Both later joined the ruling People’s Action Party, with Dr Syed Harun entering Parliament as a member of the Nee Soon GRC team.

“Hopefully the Special Select Committee will bring back trust to the NMP scheme,” Lo said.

Jeremy Tan expressed similar motivations, calling the NMP system “one of many avenues available in Singapore for independent voices to look out for fellow Singaporeans.”

He said his experience running as an independent had allowed him to engage with former NMPs and civic organisations, adding that he hopes to bring those perspectives to future debates in Parliament.

After the nomination deadline, the Special Select Committee will consult elected MPs for their views before interviewing candidates and recommending names for presidential appointment.

Those selected will be formally appointed by the president and take their oaths of allegiance during a sitting of Parliament.

According to the Office of the Clerk of Parliament, NMPs are chosen from among individuals who have rendered distinguished public service or excelled in areas such as the arts, sciences, business, sports, or social service.

Jeremy Tan and Darryl Lo vow continued political involvement as independents gain ground

Both Lo and Tan have maintained an active presence in civic and policy discussions since the May 2025 election.

Tan, 34, garnered 36.16 per cent of the vote in Mountbatten against PAP’s Gho Sze Kee — the highest independent vote share since 1972.

Lo, 28, achieved 23.47 per cent in Radin Mas, surpassing opposition candidate Kumar Appavoo of the People’s Alliance for Reform, who secured 7.36 per cent.

Although neither won a parliamentary seat, both said they remain committed to public engagement and policy advocacy through digital and grassroots channels.