Singapore swears in first woman President amid criticism - The Hindu

15.9.17

Singapore swears in first woman President amid criticism - The Hindu: Halimah Yacob, a former speaker of parliament from the Malay Muslim minority, won the presidency in a walkover after authorities decided her rivals did not meet strict eligibility criteria.

While the role is largely ceremonial, the President has veto powers on key government appointments and safeguards the country’s substantial financial reserves.

In her first speech as president, Ms. Halimah (63), addressed the racial tensions that have sprung up as a result of the process and vowed to be President of all Singaporeans “regardless of race, language or religion”.

“I look forward to the day when we will no longer need to... have reserved elections, and Singaporeans naturally and regularly elect citizens of all races as presidents,” she added.