I think you are taking the easy out.
The issue was not to have TT to get office. There were 2 other contenders and TJS entry was going to split votes. I am sure a schoolboy would have told you that. Harbans Singh was the same. In the Anson By elections, Chiam graciously stood aside. Harbans did not. Luckily Harbans was discredited so he received about 300 votes. Chiam move was recognised and rewarded.
Nothing to reconcile. It was too close to forget.
I am pissed at people putting the blame on TJS for TCB's loss as this is absolute nonsense. Worst are those who started smearing him even as the election draws to a close. There are many "if"s:
1) If TKL withdrew and his votes went to TCB, TCB would have won
2) If TJS withdrew and his votes went to TCB, TCB would have won
3) If TCB withdrew and his votes went to TJS, TJS would have won
4) If TKL withdrew and his votes went to TJS + DAFT voters did not switch support from TJS to TCB, then TJS would have won
5) If only TT and TCB runs for the presidency, then you would have LHL coming out to make a few more apologies and DAFT votes would have chosen TT anyway
6) If only TT and TCB is in the picture, what makes you think PAP will not send in another chap to split the votes?
NO matter how it unfolds, TT would have been assured of his 30+% hardcore PAP votes.
Damn those of you who blame TJS for being "used unknowingly". He did stand a fair chance of winning and it is right for him to step into the contest.
TJS DID NOT FAIL YOU VOTERS. YOU FAILED HIM FOR SWITCHING ALLEGIANCE TO PAP MAN TCB.