TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the date for the local elections in Taiwan draws near, it's time to take a closer look at the situation in major cities, in particular, Taiwan's capital: Taipei City.
Here, three major players stand out among the 12 hopefuls for the mayoral position: Chen Shih-chung, Chiang Wan-an, and Vivian Huang.
Chen Shih-chung represents the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). The former Health Minister of Taiwan resigned from his post over the summer to take part in the election.
Chiang Wan-an is a former legislator. He represents the opposition Kuomintang (also known as the KMT party), and is also the great grandson of former Taiwan president Chiang Kai-shek.
Vivian Huang is the former deputy mayor of Taipei City, and a former member of the Taiwan People's Party. Now running as an independent, Huang's bid for mayor runs along similar lines of incumbent Taipei City Mayor Ko Wen-je.
Ko made headlines in 2018 when he won the mayoral position, beating the candidates from ruling DPP and the main opposition KMT parties. He has now already completed two 4-year terms.
As he prepares to step down, many speculate that his sights are set on the presidential election in 2024.
With the local elections setting the stage for the presidential election two years from now, analysts predict that all parties' abilities to hold onto certain municipalities will be the key as President Tsai Ing-wen's two terms in office come to an end.
In particular, if the DPP can secure the reigns in Taipei and keep the 7 cities and counties it already holds, it could spell good news for the general future of the DPP's presidential bid.
However, if Chiang is to win over Taipei, it will likely bolster the KMT's ambitions in putting forth incumbent New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi or KMT Chairman Eric Chu as their 2024 presidential candidate.
The three major candidates are giving their all in the last leg of the race, and have all proposed plans to remedy the high-cost of housing in Taipei, boost the falling birthrate, and push for urban renewal.
Yet, media observers remarked that none of them refused to commit to not seeking reelection if they don't deliver on these promises.
But, what do you think? Have you made up your mind on your favorite candidate? Don't forget to vote. You still have a chance to cast your ballot in the Taipei City election.
You can follow Vivian Hsiao on Twitter: @vivianhsiaoTVBS
