TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's former Vice President, Chen Chien-jen, was inaugurated as the country's new premier at the Presidential Office on Tuesday (Jan. 31).
The ceremony, marking the symbolic transfer of power from former premier Su Tseng-chang to Chen, was attended by President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Lai Ching-te.
Speaking at the event, Chen made a surprise announcement, stating that his new position would be his final official role in public service.
This may indicate that he has no intentions to vie for the presidency in the 2024 elections, which may spell good news for Lai, who is expected to run next year.
Chen also vowed to give it his all as the new Premier and do his best to perform his duties and responsibilities.
Meanwhile, the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party members have questioned Chen's decision to hold his position at the Academia Sinica while heading the government.
In particular, KMT chairman Eric Chu pointed out this is unheard of in Taiwan's political history.
