Singapore GE2020: the beginning of a new-old order?

Abstract

The principle of consent is an essential factor for Gramsci’s conception of ideological hegemony. For Gramsci, there must be consensus between the dominant and subordinated groups for the successful maintenance of ideological hegemony. Of note, consensus for Gramsci is a dynamic and continuous process of readjustment to altering conditions. Hence, an exchange is required between rulers and ruled as norm-making for hegemony, rather than coercion alone or at all. This article argues that the ideological hegemony necessary for continued PAP dominance of politics and governance in Singapore may be fraying as the General Elections of 2020 show how the consensus required between the hegemonic class and polity may be weakening. However, the article concludes by holding that these results while challenging may not herald the end of its hegemony as consensus may be retrieved among the broad electorate by addressing several key issues that arose during the elections.