TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The opposition Kuomintang's (KMT) Central Standing Committee gathered at their headquarters on Wednesday (May 17) to announce Hou You-yi as their candidate for the 2024 presidential election. The drafting marks a momentous achievement for Mayor Hou, who has dedicated many years to serving in the main opposition party under various administrations.
Hou graciously accepted KMT Chairman Eric Chu's endorsement and thanked fellow contender Taiwanese businessman Terry Gou for his contributions. "I would like to express my gratitude to Terry Gou for his significant contributions to our economy and his efforts to unite everyone in better serving our country and our people," Hou said.
His extensive experience and steadfast commitment have led him to this pivotal moment in his career. However, despite this achievement, the New Taipei City mayor still needs to overcome three significant challenges as he gears up for the 2024 election.
The first challenge lies in repairing the strained relationship with his biggest contender in the nomination race, Terry Gou. Many supporters wonder if Hou will successfully bridge the gap and unite the party's support behind him.
"We need to initiate reforms and strive for a breakthrough to facilitate the rotation of political parties, securing the reelection of the KMT." Hou said. "This will enable us to alternate once more and, above all, save our country, Taiwan."
Speculation also surrounds whether Hou will ally with Ko Wen-je, a candidate from another opposition party, the Taiwan People's Party. A collaboration between the two candidates could significantly impact the election dynamics.
With a busy schedule ahead, the third challenge for Hou is whether he will step down from his mayoral position, triggering a by-election at the end of the year. As the current mayor of New Taipei City, Hou has a lot at stake in the upcoming election. The outcome could determine his future path, with no turning back if he fails to secure victory.
Han Kuo-yu, who once left his mayoral position in Kaohsiung to run for president in 2020, faced defeat at the hands of President Tsai Ing-wen and was subsequently recalled by the citizens.
Hou has a challenging journey ahead as he prepares to face the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's formidable candidate, Lai Ching-te.To secure victory, he must work tirelessly, putting in immense effort and dedication.
