KEELUNG (TVBS News) — Activists have initiated a recall election against Keelung Mayor George Hsieh (謝國樑), with the vote rumored to take place on Oct. 5. The date, coinciding with Hsieh's birthday, has prompted mixed emotions from his family. Hsieh on Wednesday (Aug. 14) expressed respect for the decision but acknowledged his family's potential distress.
The Keelung City Election Commission (基隆市選委會) has completed the preliminary verification of the second phase of the petition. Officials plan to finalize the decision on Friday.
Hsieh noted that the recall vote scheduled for Oct. 5 would fall on his 49th birthday. He expressed respect for the process but mentioned that his wife felt a bit down after hearing the news. Hsieh stated that his family usually spends his birthday together, so it's natural for them to feel some pressure.
Hsieh questioned the legitimacy of the recall, stating that this recall lacks justification and is being used as a tool for a re-election attempt, which the losing side can use the recall to initiate another election.
