It appears now that SDP's withdrawal ensured WP's resounding victory. The opposition votes would really have been split if SDP had taken part, especially with Paul or Vincent as the candidate.
Interesting to see what comment they would make, as this victory also makes WP even stronger among the opposition parties.
A little bitter sweet you may say. Hope it makes SDP stronger.
If SDP contested, the chances are like this:
WP lose if SDP contest - chances 10%
This is based on the 13% vote swing and 11% margin that WP won in the end. I estimate SDP would have pulled no more than 3% from WP and a few votes from SDA and RP.
Impact of WP's loss on WP - chances 5%
PE was never WP's to begin with. It is also good to have PAP off guard until 2016.
Impact of WP's lesser win if SDP contest - less than 1%
A win is a win. More so when SDP contest and WP still win, it show how strong WP is.
SDP lose deposit - chances 98%
SDP may garner the highest votes but may still lose their deposit.
Impact of SDP's loss on SDP - chances additional 10% on top of the 60% damage done due to the antics
SDP like RP and SDA loses any moral authority left to claim unity or previously contested wards.
So I think WP has nothing to thank SDP for.