“To straddle the middle ground and win elections, we have to be in charge of the political agenda. This can only be done by not being beaten in the argument with our critics. They complain that I come down too hard on their arguments. But wrong ideas have to be challenged before they influence public opinion and make for problems. Those who try to be clever at the expense of the government should not complain if my replies are as sharp as their criticisms.”
― From Third World to First: A Statesman’s Powerful Story of Transformation from Poverty to National Leadership
― From Third World to First: A Statesman’s Powerful Story of Transformation from Poverty to National Leadership
“Whoever governs Singapore must have that iron in him. Or give it up. This is not a game of cards! This is your life and mine! I've spent a whole lifetime building this and as long as I'm in charge, nobody is going to knock it down.”
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“Some people believe that, having debauched themselves in one political party or front, they can, like the phoenix, arise from the ashes of the old in the feathers of a new party, front or movement as fresh as if nothing had happened. In fact, there is no such magic formula for longevity in political life other than the simple and the obvious: just honour your promises; do not corrupt and debauch your party. 1956”
― The Wit and Wisdom of Lee Kuan Yew
― The Wit and Wisdom of Lee Kuan Yew
“Start with putting three of your friends to jail. You definitely know what for, and people will believe you”
― From Third World to First: A Statesman’s Powerful Story of Transformation from Poverty to National Leadership
― From Third World to First: A Statesman’s Powerful Story of Transformation from Poverty to National Leadership
“I ignore polling as a method of government. I think that shows a certain weakness of mind - an inability to chart a course whichever way the wind blows, whichever way the media encourages the people to go, you follow. If you can't force or are unwilling to force your people to follow you, with or without threats, you are not a leader.”
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Aditya’s 2025 Year in Books
Take a look at Aditya’s Year in Books, including some fun facts about their reading.
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