Multi-cornered fights could take place in at least 4 constituencies

This is even as several parties retreat from some areas to avoid splitting opposition vote

- Sue-Ann Tan

The upcoming May 3 election could see multi-cornered fights taking place in at least four constituencies, although several parties have in the past days stepped away from some areas to avoid splitting the opposition vote.

In the lead-up to Nomination Day on April 23, two opposition parties have withdrawn from the newly carved out Jalan Kayu SMC, setting the scene for a straight fight between the PAP and WP.

Red Dot United (RDU) secretary-general Ravi Philemon said on April 22 that the decision was made after talks with the WP, which has also expressed interest in contesting the single-member constituency.

"As part of these conversations, we spoke with the WP leadership. During those exchanges, they expressed interest in contesting in Jalan Kayu. As discussions progressed, it became clear they intended to field a candidate there. They requested Jalan Kayu," he said.

The People's Power Party (PPP) said on the same day that it will no longer contest the Jalan Kayu and Tampines Changkat single seats.

PPP secretary-general Goh Meng Seng said: "As a party, we also want to give respect to the bigger parties... We have decided that we will actually have to disappoint our candidates, as well as our supporters."