Singapore under Goh Chok Tong: Existence and Relaxation of Authoritarian Rule
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Abstract
This research aimed to study the existence and relaxation of the authoritarian regime under former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong as well as analyze the dynamics of authoritarianism in Singapore during the transition period. The qualitative research relied on documentary research covering both primary and secondary sources based on four main criteria, including authenticity, credibility, representativeness, and meaning. It adopted a concept of authoritarianism coined by the political scientist Juan Linz in explaining characteristics of authoritarianism in Singapore. The research results found that Goh Chok Tong adopted a more compromising and consultative style of governance due to his personality and perception. These changes led to a relaxation of the limited political pluralism and restricted political mobilization in Singapore. Based on Linz's concept and the findings, researchers also found a new body of knowledge that was "an analytical framework of semi-authoritarian politics," consisting of three indicators: 1) politics under a leader with a relaxing style; 2) the relaxation of authoritarian practice; and 3) the maintenance of authoritarian aims.
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