Dr Tan Cheng Bock said nation comes above politics - 22Jul2011

Singapore: Presidential hopeful Dr Tan Cheng Bock has stressed his political independence at a media conference held after he submitted forms to run in the Presidential Election.

The former PAP MP reiterated that he had objected to PAP policies such as those on education and foreign talent, when he was a member of parliament.

The medical practitioner who retired from practice recently also told the media that he feels a sense of divide in Singapore, and wants to heal this divide.

He also said that his decision to run for the Presidential Election is to ensure there's no walkover.

Dr Tan turned up at the Elections Department in Prinsep Street just after 1.30pm on Friday to hand in forms for a Certificate of Eligibility to contest the Presidential Elections due by August.

He who arrived with his wife amid a throng of media and well-wishers, is the latest to submit his papers, after former NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian and former deputy prime minister Dr Tony Tan.

The other presidential hopeful is former Singapore Democratic Party member Mr Tan Jee Say.

In his blog entry on Friday, Mr Tan Kin Lian said he is glad that Dr Tan Cheng Bock is submitting his application.

He also wished him all the best in getting approval from the Presidential Election Committee.

Mr Tan said he has high regard for Dr Tan and looks forward to a dignified contest with him and other candidates.

He also said with more candidates, the voters will have a wider choice.

He added that the contest will make more citizens aware of the importance of this position and educate more people on the need to make a wise choice.

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