Singapore, under the leadership of the PAP, possesses a distinct political culture: authoritarian, pragmatic, rational and legalistic. Singapore’s power structure is highly centralized, characterized by a top-down style. It features appointment rather than election to most offices. Economic growth and political stability were maintained by the paternal guidance of the PAP. Thus, Singapore is not administered by politicians, but by bureaucrats, in a meritocracy where power is gained through skill, performance, and loyalty to the nation and its policies.
Furthermore, Singapore has a multi-racial and multi-religious character, where giving fair treatment to all races in education, housing and health is considered very important. The minorities are assured of equal representation in Parliament through the Group Representation Constituency or GRC system.
There is a dominance of government-controlled companies in the local economy. But in spite of its powerful position, the Singapore government has maintained a clean, corruption-free image. In addition, rifts within the leadership in Singapore are rare. The mode of decision making is by consensus, and the leadership style is collective.
The formal Head of State of the Republic of Singapore is the President. Tony Tan Keng Yam is the current President and he was sworn in on 1 September 2011. The Prime Minister and Head of Government is Lee Hsien Loong, who was sworn in on 12 August 2004.