Further reflections on the EP

By now, with all that inundation in the media -- including today's ST report and a commentary by Prof Tommy Koh -- we all know just what Singapore's Elected President (EP) can do and cannot do in his role as a gatekeeper, or, in Singlish, a jaga. OK, a VIJ -- Very Important Jaga.

In this important role, if no one tries to break into the house, the jaga may seem to have little to do but in fact he cannot afford to fall asleep on his watch, it is argued. He is the bulwark against a rogue government's machinations, be it tinkering with the reserves or tampering with the scales of justice.

He has also a diplomatic role, but how it is exercised, I think, depends on the incumbent. The present one has been a diplomat and seems to relish this role. But it is still a limited role and if the new EP is, say, uncomfortable with having to jet overseas now and then, I am sure he will be less active in this role. Our chief diplomats are still the PM and the FM. It is what they say when abroad that matters.

Finally, the incumbent EP has carved out a niche role as a promoter of charitable causes. But, as in the case of his diplomatic role, this is up to the EP of the day. I suppose the more active he is in this role, the more he is seen as a People's President.

Certain requirements ensure that no Tom, Dick and Harry will get the job.

But I think that, as more people know more about the job description of the EP, the less comfortable they will be with his (or her) pay being higher than that of the PM's (however the outcome of the ministerial salary review). I think the issue of how much our unique EP should be paid cannot be avoided.

It is somewhat ironic. We want someone who is wise and cerebral, knows the relevant laws of the land inside out (or can grasp these quickly and very well), is passionate about Singapore's destiny and is absolutely incorruptable, but who -- ideally -- has reached the stage in his or her life that material concerns (while not to be disregarded) cannot be a key driving motivation. Wah, everything also want, huh?