Wong Souk Yee, 56

Occupation: Adjunct lecturer at the Centre for

English Language Communication, National University of Singapore

Family: Single

Education: PhD in creative writing and literature from the University of New South Wales; Master of Arts (Honours) in creative writing from the University of Western Sydney; Bachelor of Accountancy from the then-University of Singapore

Hobbies: Reading and writing

Why politics?

I think there is a desperate need for more opposition MPs in Parliament. Bills get passed... without any meaningful debate or challenge... we may have a few PAP MPs with the courage to oppose Bills... (but) if the party whip is not lifted, they are obliged to vote along party lines. This cannot go on.

Why you?

Standing in the general election is a kind of national service which more citizens should be doing. I am a late starter, but better late than never.

What issues will you focus on?

Accountability and transparency.

Accountability means the Government must explain its decisions and actions to the citizens, and take responsibility. Transparency means providing the right information for the public to make informed decisions about how things are run.

These also form the basis of how we will run town councils. Not only will we run them directly without managing agents, town council boards will include residents elected through constituency elections.

Favourite spot in Singapore?

My home in Marsiling Drive, which I share with six cats and a dog.