TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a recent session at the city council on Wednesday (May 15), Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) expressed his hopes for the incoming administration led by Lai Ching-te (賴清德), emphasizing the need for cross-strait stability, economic prosperity, and improved living standards for the populace.
He pointed out the growth in renewable energy's share from zero to 9% and called for accelerated social housing projects to support the youth.
Chen also lauded President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) as the most supportive president of Kaohsiung in history.
He highlighted the significant improvements in Taiwan's international visibility and diplomatic relations under Tsai's eight-year tenure, alongside enhanced security cooperation with the United States and notable economic achievements.
While Chen praised Tsai for elevating Taiwan's status on the global stage and strengthening ties with democratic allies, opposition from Kuomintang (KMT) Councilor Coco Lee (李雅靜) painted a different picture.
Lee criticized Tsai's administration for increasing national debt and pushing the housing price-to-income ratio to record highs.
This indicates a financial burden of an additional NT$31,000 in debt per citizen and an increase in unpaid debt by NT$709.7 billion over eight years, she stressed.
As Lai prepares for the inauguration ceremony on May 20, the world watches in anticipation of the incoming team's new direction.
