Phetsarath Ratanavongsa vs Tony Tan Keng Yam

Phetsarath Ratanavongsa was appointed Viceroy (Oupahat) of the Kingdom of Luang Prabang by King Sisavang Vong. This made him the highest-ranking official after the king, with authority over administrative affairs.

After Japan's surrender in World War II, Phetsarath declared Laos independent from French colonial rule. He formed the Lao Issara (Free Laos) government, serving as its leader and advocating for national sovereignty.

When French forces reoccupied Laos in 1946, Phetsarath fled to Thailand. He led the Lao Issara government-in-exile from Bangkok, continuing efforts to gain international recognition for Lao independence.

Phetsarath returned to Laos after receiving a royal pardon from King Sisavang Vong. He was welcomed as a national hero and symbol of independence, though he held no official position in the new government.

Tony Tan served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence from 1995 to 2005. He oversaw the modernization of the Singapore Armed Forces and played a key role in defense policy.

Tony Tan Keng Yam was elected as the 7th President of Singapore on August 27, 2011, in a closely contested election. He served as a non-executive head of state, focusing on national unity and social cohesion.

Tony Tan was re-elected as President of Singapore on September 13, 2017, after being declared the sole eligible candidate following changes to the eligibility criteria. His second term focused on social issues and community engagement.