TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a display of political tradition, Taiwanese parties, including the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), vied for the prestigious Ketagalan Boulevard for pre-election eve rallies. Such rallies, viewed as harbingers of presidential victories, are intensifying ahead of the upcoming elections.
This year, the TPP, stepping outside the traditional competition between the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), will host its final rally in front of the Presidential Office, a significant deviation from past practices. Max Wu, a TPP nominee, emphasized the historic significance of Ketagalan Boulevard as a "sacred place for democracy."
Ketagalan Boulevard, known for its capacity to hold thousands, has been a crucial spot for previous elections, according to Niu Tse-hsun, a professor at Chinese Culture University. He noted its ability to generate media buzz and possibly intimidate political rivals.
Chang Mao-nan from the ruling DPP highlighted the strategic importance of Ketagalan Boulevard, mentioning its minimal impact on nearby residential and commercial areas. The DPP secured the avenue from Jan. 9 to 11, posing challenges for the TPP's preparations on Jan. 12.
In a contrasting strategy, the KMT, having failed to secure a prime spot, planned an alternative approach. Chien Chen-yu, a spokesperson for KMT's Hou Yu-ih, revealed their campaign held a rally on Dec. 23 at Ketagalan Boulevard and has since been touring Taiwan, planning to return to their base in New Taipei City on the night before the election.
The election's outcome is highly anticipated, particularly whether Ko Wen-je, the first from outside the traditional political factions, can maintain the winning streak associated with the pre-election rally at Ketagalan Boulevard.
