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SINGAPORE - The opposition Red Dot United (RDU) has proposed that an unconditional cash transfer be given to all Singaporeans to increase their financial security, amid rising costs and economic uncertainty.

All Housing Board flats should also be eligible for redevelopment so that older ones can retain their value, instead of experiencing lease decay.

These are key proposals from the RDU’s 24-page manifesto unveiled on April 19, along with greater support for small local businesses.

In a statement, RDU secretary-general Ravi Philemon said: “We are facing a global trade crisis, and Singapore cannot escape getting trampled on when the giants fight.”

He added: “A clear plan of action is exactly what citizens need right now as we face even greater uncertainty, both locally and globally.” 

RDU is the latest party to release their election manifesto ahead of the May 3 polls, after the PAP, WP, PSP, People’s Power Party and the Singapore People’s Party.

The RDU is expected to contest Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, Nee Soon GRC, Jurong Central SMC and Jalan Kayu SMC, as stated in its manifesto.

The document said the 5Cs of the past – cash, car, credit card, condominium and country club memberships – symbolised success and upward mobility, but these have become unattainable for many.

“In their place, a new set of 5Cs seems to have emerged: cash handouts, CDC Vouchers, CPF top-ups, conservancy rebates and Chas card rebates.”

“Singaporeans cannot dream or build a future on handouts,” read the manifesto, adding that many citizens struggle with rising costs, stagnant wages and an ever-growing class divide.

The RDU said it would champion a “Citizens Dividend”, an unconditional cash transfer that serves as a f...