Report: Hou Yu-ih’s victory could ease Taiwan-China tensions

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — If Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih wins the election, Taiwan's political and economic situation could see significant changes, possibly reducing pressure on relations with China, according to a report by Nikkei Asia published Friday (Jan. 5).

Titled "Hou Yu-ih, Taiwan's 'law and order' poster child aims for top job," the Japanese economic publication said that if Hou becomes Taiwan's next president, tensions between Taiwan and China could de-escalate, but Taiwan may risk being drawn into China's sphere of economic influence.

Nikkei Asia noted how Hou, formerly from the police sector, rose astonishingly fast in the political scene.

The report pointed out that many Taiwanese voters are tired of the nearly eight-year reign of President Tsai Ing-wen, especially regarding the increasing threat from China and the slowing economic growth in Taiwan.

Framing the Jan. 13 presidential election as a choice between peace and war, Hou met with young voters during a recent campaign rally in Kaohsiung, stating, "The government must help the younger generation achieve their dreams. We shouldn't send our young people to war. We must maintain good cross-strait relations and prevent war."

During the campaign, Hou has made clear that he accepts the 1992 Consensus in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and promises to restart Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (CSSTA).

He also advocates for a hard stance against crime, opposes the abolition of the death penalty, and promises to execute capital punishment if elected - symbolizing his commitment to maintaining law and order.

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