The President and "soft power"

TNP PHOTO: Gavin Foo

Mr Ong Teng Cheong lent his name to Singapore's art scene. President SR Nathan, who is stepping down later this month, is known for his charitable work.

With the Presidential Election 2011 looming, several potential candidates have focused on soft power, or the power to influence.

The EP exercises his constitutional powers only in exceptional circumstances, such as for protecting past reserves.

But this soft power role, and the other functions such as meeting foreign dignitaries, is more often exercised.

The problem is when an EP champions an issue that slips into the domain occupied by the Government.

More in The New Paper on Tuesday (Aug 1).