If I decide to vote for the opposition...

If I decide to vote for the opposition, it will be because I believe it is in the country's best interest.

I am not saying I will vote for the opposition - to be honest, I am still undecided.  And, I also believe keeping one's vote secret is essential to the proper functioning of a democracy.

But if I do decide to vote for the opposition, it will be a long and hard-thought decision.  It will not be because one candidate has better credentials than the other.  It will not be out of protest at the PAP's dominance in parliament, and it will not be because I object to the PAP's policies.  After all, I sincerely believe they have done a good job.

It will not even be because one candidate "connects" better with the Singaporean people while another shows what might be signs of a fundamental lack of understanding of the problems faced by common folk or lesser mortals.  After all, people can learn.  And if they are intelligent and sincere, they do.

If I decide to vote for the opposition, it will be because I feel the country needs a rejuvenation of its political process.  Just as the PAP might tell people to vote thinking of the party, and not just the candidate, I would like to vote thinking of the country and not just of the parties.  And the country needs to show both the world and its own citizens that there is real political discourse and exchange.  Singapore should not need to endure the aspersions so often cast in international circles on the authenticity of its democracy.

And all Singaporeans need to know that their voices can be heard, that their actions can bring about change, for better or for worse, and that they themselves must be the ones ultimately responsible for their country.  If Singaporeans know that, many more will step up to provide voices and hands to help our country grow.  Even the PAP cannot do it all on its own.  The voices and hands of all Singaporeans are needed if we are to build a Singapore for all Singaporeans, the young, the old, and the new.

If I decide to vote for the opposition, that is what I will be voting and hoping for.