I'm sorry that I have to disagree with Eric here. Very vehemently, in fact.
Firstly, all candidates know the risks involved in being candidates. If the risk affects you, you can choose not to run, but help out in other capacities.
Secondly, even background helpers are not free from risk. Your face may appear in a CNA video footage or in the newspapers, and your pro-PAP or govt-fearing boss may ask you to leave. One of the candidates in 2011 successfully sought no-objection from her employer despite working in a social welfare organisation. However in 2006, it was a very different case - she was asked to leave her employment when she was merely a helper. This candidate is close to Eric and he cannot be unaware of.
Thirdly, which is something I said before - no one said Sajeev or others would not be appointed cadres in months to come.