Appointment of Returning Officer for Singapore's Presidential and Parliamentary Elections

Ms Hazel Poa asked the Prime Minister (a) who is eligible to be the Returning Officer (RO) for Singapore's presidential and parliamentary elections; (b) how is the RO selected; and (c) what are the considerations behind the selection of the RO.

Mr Chan Chun Sing (for the Prime Minister): Under the law, the Prime Minister appoints the Returning Officer (RO).

As the RO oversees the conduct of elections, the RO should be a senior public officer with relevant experience, such as having held a senior election appointment in previous elections.