PoliticsAugust 18, 2026
backbencher
BAK-ben-cher
Definition
A member of a legislature who holds no official government office, such as a minister or shadow cabinet member, and sits on the benches behind the front row.
Etymology
The term originated in the British Parliament, referring to the physical rows of benches occupied by members who were not senior party leaders or ministers sitting on the front benches.
In the news
The article uses the term to identify Edward Chia, who tabled amendments to a motion in Parliament despite not holding a senior leadership position in the government.
PAP, WP continue to clash over opposition party’s economic proposals
Read the full article ↗The Business Times