TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih tackled significant issues ranging from housing justice and national defense to energy and international relations with students from National Taiwan University (NTU) on Monday (June 19), leaving no stone unturned.
As the opposition Kuomintang's (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou stressed the critical role of housing as a fundamental human need and proposed revising the tax system to address related concerns. In the realm of national defense, he emphasized preparedness rather than initiating conflict, advocating for robust measures to safeguard the nation.
Hou also advocated for environmentally friendly policies, outlining plans to extend the lifespan of nuclear power plants and reduce dependence on thermal power, aiming for safer and carbon-reducing energy solutions. Addressing international relations, the KMT candidate emphasized close cooperation with the United States and pragmatic diplomacy with other nations, underlining the importance of low-key engagement.
During his speech, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration for fostering increasing political and ideological divisions within Taiwan. He lamented the detrimental impact of divisive labels such as pro-China or anti-China, which have frayed the fabric of Taiwanese society. Hou aspires to unite Taiwan by prioritizing national interests above partisan affiliations and ethnic distinctions.
When asked about U.S.-China-Taiwan relations by a student, Hou outlined four principles he would uphold: safeguarding the Republic of China Constitution; preserving democracy and freedom; prioritizing the well-being of the people; and pursuing peaceful stability across the Taiwan Strait.
Hou expressed his opposition to Taiwan's independence and highlighted that the term "Taiwan independence" does not appear in the Constitution. He challenged Vice President Lai Ching-te to step forward and propose amendments if the ruling DPP disagreed.
During the hour-long Q&A session, NTU students posed incisive questions, including one about Hou's response to the KMT's poor performance in recent polls and whether he would yield to Terry Gou. In response, Hou invoked a famous line from the manga series "Slam Dunk," stating, "If I give up now, it's over," conveying his unwavering determination to fight until the final moment.
Hou also expressed his intention to reinstate the Special Investigation Division (SID) to promptly investigate allegations of misconduct by the DPP during their eight years in power.
While some students acknowledged slight improvements in Hou's speech at NTU compared to his previous address at National Chengchi University (NCCU), there remains ample room for further enhancement.
Critics argue that tangible accomplishments hold more significance than mere rhetoric, particularly considering the KMT's current electoral prospects and the ongoing controversy surrounding the "kindergarten sedation" case. They argue that Hou must transcend empty slogans and substantiate his promises with concrete actions to reverse the tide of public sentiment.
