An analysis of the post 2011GE's result will support my contention.
In the 2011GE even with a "Straight Fight" SDP average share of votes contested were only 36.7%, well below the
national opposition pool of 39.9%. Which is to say, about 3.2% of typical opposition voters were turn-off enough to
vote PAP instead.
SPP and NSP being a more moderate and progressive opposition parties did very well and garnered 41.4% and 39.2%
respectively of the opposition votes.
I dreaded to imagine a 3-corner fight between SDP, WP and incumbent PAP. SDP will be mauled!
The above contention is straightly my personal opinion ….
Cheers
Your opinion is correct in a way. But I do not think the SDP will be mauled in a 3CF.
What you are saying is true in a 3CF involving the NSP or SPP. Yes the NSP and SPP are moderates just like the WP. So they could end up just like Desmond Lim in GE2011, mauled and losing their deposits.
The SDP is a different kind of fish altogether. SDP is not moderate and quiescent like those parties very similar to WP. Here is a recognised fighter willing to stand up to the PAP. Fiery and willing to go to jail for their beliefs!
In a 3CF of PAP vs WP vs SDP, I see the SDP holding its own with a minumum of 15%. This are the hardcore oppositionists who will vote for them. They may attract another 10% away from the WP and a further 5% from the bullying PAP, making a decent 30% in total.
The rest of the 70% to be shared out almost equally with PAP and WP. Lately the papzis have been found wanting, so dun expect them to do well this time round.
There are people who think that we should have different parties contesting so that the one with the best ideas would win. While I prefer a straight fight with two contrasting parties, a 3CF isnt too bad an idea.
GE2016 and beyond would be better with more rather than just PAP and WP. When both are not living up to expectations, the people deserved more!