What is the state of Philippine democracy, Lee Hsien Loong was asked. “I believe they have a strong party system,” he replied. “Do you mean a one-party system like we have here?” “Oh, no, not at all,” the PM replied, with a hint of a smile. “Oh, a strong multi-party system, then, requiring robust coalition-building and power-sharing?” The PM shook his head, and smiling broadly, replied “No, just a strong party system. Our ambassador in Manila told me the new president, since June 30, has had: a thanksgiving party, a birthday party for his mother, Madame Imelda, a birthday party for a close former senate colleague, a party for his wife the new First Lady, a birthday party for himself, a happy time at the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifier, and even managed a photo finish at the Eric Clapton Concert in New York. And I just invited him to join the party here for our Grand Prix, and of course he said yes.”
Variations of this joke have been going around...