Obviously Tony Tan's son received special treatment

Even if Patrick Tan Boon Ooi served NS - his father, Dr. Tony Tan was the number 2 guy! This would apply to persons holding ministerial positions because guess what: that's the system. Otherwise we should suggest all ministers be stripped of their privileges, take bus and mrt and salaries like the rest of us. The fact is, they are not like the rest of us, so no use harping over why Patrick Tan gets to serve as a defence scientist. On top of this, Patrick himself has exceptional credentials so is it any wonder he is drafted into defence medical research in a field that so many others cannot contribute? Vocational despatch is not unusual in the SAF. Bear in mind, Patrick is no ordinary "PSC scholar" or doctor - he was extra brilliant in a niche field. So these are valid reasons why he was posted where he was.

Certainly there will be those who argue that Dr tan used his influence to get his son where he got posted to. Well, Dr tan owned up already - he didn't use his influence so it's up to you to believe him or not. If anyone has a problem with the "unfairness", then I suggest you simply indicate this at the ballot box. I don't personally find a problem with Patrick and think this whole issue brought up to discredit his dad is a senseless distraction from the real issues at hand. And please don't go around saying this has bearing on Dr tan's moral authority and whether he will use the EP to gain preferential treatment. First, what has the president's role have to do with moral authority. You're voting for EP. not the dalai lama. Secondly, of course the EP will get preferential treatment! This will apply whether Dr Tan , Mr Tan Jee Say or Dr Tan Cheng Bock becomes president. So it simply boils down to who can do the job best. Of course some of you would want a non-PAP affiliated person, that's fine, but bear this in mind - a candidate, formerly affiliated with PAP or not, when elected will get the exact same roles to do. Custodial duties, not very many powers and essentially a figurehead who goes out to meet world leaders. If that is distasteful because the EP will be paid $4mil a year, then the problem lies with the institution of the EP and the mechanism, in which case, I suggest you spoil your vote.