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Taichung Mayor Lu sets eyes on Singapore in strategic visit
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen announces her first overseas trip to Singapore since re-election, positioning herself as a potential Kuomintang candidate in the 2028 presidential election. Learn how visiting Singapore is a strategic move for Taiwan’s political figures.
2024/04/02 10:54
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Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen tops approval ratings
Discover the latest insights into potential KMT presidential candidates in Taiwan as Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen emerges as a frontrunner with a 62% approval rating. Learn about the dynamics within the Kuomintang and the challenges Lu may face in the 2028 Presidential Election.
2024/03/13 12:32
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Ko Wen-je to sue DPP spokesperson over party support claims
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je plans to file a lawsuit against Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) spokesperson Justin Wu after denying allegations of attempting to influence support for the legislative speaker candidate. Wu welcomes the legal action and calls for a clear courtroom discussion with all relevant communication records. The controversy arose after the election of the legislative speaker, with Kuomintang (KMT) members Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang securing victory. The TPP accused certain DPP members of negotiating with Ko for a reciprocal endorsement arrangement. Wu asserts that Ko proposed the arrangement, but the DPP did not accept it. Wu demands that Ko explain why he abstained from the second round of the speaker election and raises questions about transparency in the recent election.
2024/02/02 11:58
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Han Kuo-yu clinches victory in legislative speaker election
Han Kuo-yu of the Kuomintang (KMT) emerged victorious over You Si-kun of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the 11th Legislative Yuan Speaker election, securing 54 votes compared to You’s 51 votes. The KMT also nominated Johnny Chiang, while the DPP fielded incumbent speaker You and deputy speaker Tsai Chi-chang. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presented Huang Shan-shan as a candidate. After the first round of voting, no candidate had a majority, leading to a second round between Han and You. In the second round, all eight TPP legislators were absent, and the results mirrored the first round. Han’s win confirmed him as the 11th Legislative Yuan Speaker, with the deputy speaker election scheduled for later in the day.
2024/02/01 14:38
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Legislative speaker vote heads to second round in Taiwan
The initial round of voting for the Legislative speaker in Taipei has concluded, with Han Kuo-yu from the Kuomintang (KMT) and You Si-kun from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) advancing to the second round with 54 and 51 votes respectively. The KMT nominated Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang, while the DPP put forward You Si-kun and Tsai Chi-chang. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) proposed Huang Shan-shan as their candidate. KMT lawmakers used open balloting to prevent defection, resulting in Han Kuo-yu receiving 54 votes, You Si-kun receiving 51 votes, and Huang Shan-shan receiving seven votes. One vote was invalidated due to ink stains. The KMT’s open ticket strategy proved successful. A second round of voting will take place in the afternoon, with the TPP not participating.
2024/02/01 12:30
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DPP’s Ker Chien-ming backs You Si-Kun as legislative speaker
The story discusses Ker Chien-ming’s support for You Si-Kun’s bid for the role of legislative speaker in Taiwan. Ker, the Democratic Progressive Party’s legislative caucus whip, stated that he is the most supportive of You Si-Kun’s election. However, Ker mentioned that the decision to appoint You now rests on Ko Wen-Je, the chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party. Ko had previously suggested that Ker may not strongly support You Si-Kun’s election. The Democratic Progressive Party caucus had proposed You Si-Kun for the post of legislative speaker and Tsai Chi-Chang as the vice speaker candidate. Ker believes that it is up to You Si-Kun and Tsai Chi-Chang to decide whether they would meet with the Taiwan People’s Party legislative caucus. Ker criticized the Taiwan People’s Party caucus for privately inviting candidates from the Democratic Progressive Party and the Kuomintang for discussions, describing it as sensational and absurd. Ker emphasized that the key issue now is Ko Wen-je’s decision, particularly considering whether to appoint Han Kuo-yu, the Kuomintang candidate who Ker worries may be influenced by the Chinese Communist Party.
2024/01/29 16:00
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KMT engages TPP in push for Taiwan’s parliamentary reform
Kuomintang (KMT) legislative speaker and deputy speaker candidates Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang visited the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) caucus on Monday (Jan. 29). Han and TPP legislator Huang Kuo-chang displayed a harmonious atmosphere, expressing hope for joint parliamentary reform. The discussion focused on the four reform opinions proposed by the TPP, with no mention of any single draft system. Following the visit, the TPP announced plans to invite the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) legislative leader candidates for discussions at their headquarters.
2024/01/29 14:25
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KMT legislative nominees to hold key talks with TPP
Kuomintang (KMT) legislative speaker and deputy speaker candidates, Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang, are scheduled to meet with Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) caucus and eight lawmakers on January 29. The dialogue is expected to last approximately 35 minutes and will be followed by a media conference. The TPP has emerged as a key minority party after the legislative elections on January 13. However, the party has not declared its support for either the incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates or the KMT for the legislative speaker race. The TPP has launched four demands for parliamentary reform, emphasizing transparency and openness in political values.
2024/01/29 10:59
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Chiang Wan-an calls for action to regain trust in KMT
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an emphasizes the need for the Kuomintang (KMT) to gain public recognition through tangible accomplishments. Chiang believes that political achievements are crucial in obtaining public endorsement and is willing to provide suggestions to build trust among young people in the KMT. Regarding the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s withdrawal from the New Tide faction, Chiang clarifies that it is an internal matter for the DPP. He expresses hope that the future central government will prioritize national affairs over politics.
2024/01/18 16:07
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China sets 1992 Consensus as prerequisite for Taiwan talks
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, insists that cross-strait communication can only proceed based on the 1992 Consensus, which upholds the principle of one China. President-elect Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called for dialogue instead of confrontation, emphasizing that cross-strait exchanges can minimize risks and achieve peace. However, TAO argues that the DPP’s insistence on Taiwanese independence hinders interactions with China. Professor Kuo Yu-jen of National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) criticizes the KMT candidate’s acceptance of the 1992 Consensus but rejection of "one country, two systems" as naive and dangerous. Kuo highlights that the One China principle places Taiwan at a disadvantage in negotiations.
2024/01/17 16:42
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Hou Yu-ih calls rivals post-election, urges unity
New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih acknowledged phoning his presidential rivals Ko Wen-je and Lai Ching-te on election night, advocating for unity and emphasizing the importance of listening to the public and resolving issues. Hou, running on the Kuomintang (KMT) ticket, lost the 2024 presidential race. Peggy Chen, wife of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je, revealed that Ko received a call from a KMT-affiliated individual on election night, rumored to be Hou. Ko reportedly ignored the calls, expressing reluctance to be "fooled for a second time." Mayor Hou confirmed making the call after the election results were final, emphasizing the need for unity and addressing urgent problems faced by Taiwan.
2024/01/17 14:37
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KMT legislator concerned over U.S.-Taiwan-China relations
Kuomintang candidate Wang Hung-wei raises concerns about the impact of Democratic Progressive Party candidate Lai Ching-te’s presidential victory on Taiwan Strait stability and U.S.-China relations, questioning the future of Taiwan under Lai’s leadership.
2024/01/14 17:16
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Ex-NTU president backs Hou Yu-ih for Taiwan presidency
Former president of National Taiwan University, Kuan Chung-ming, shows his support for Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih in Kaohsiung. Kuan criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for social issues in Taiwan and accuses them of damaging academic freedom and lacking moral integrity. Kuan urges his supporters to vote for Hou Yu-ih, emphasizing the importance of honesty, broad-mindedness, and courage in a leader. He disagrees with DPP candidate Lai Ching-Te’s criticism of the Constitution of the Republic of China, deeming him unfit for the presidency. Kuan reflects on his career and emphasizes the need for a secure Taiwan, a future for the youth, and the happiness of the people.
2024/01/07 18:46
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Supporter shaves Ko Wen-je’s face in hair
A barber in Changhua has gone viral after posting a video on Facebook of him shaving an image of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je into a client’s hair. The detailed design, complete with Ko’s face, nose, eyes, glasses, suit, and tie, has sparked lively online discussions. The client had requested the unique haircut in preparation for attending an election rally for Ko Wen-je, but he has been advised by the Changhua County Election Commission to cover his hairdo, possibly with a cap, while voting due to rules prohibiting the display of candidate-related items within polling stations. This unconventional show of support for a presidential candidate has prompted discussions about the extreme measures other supporters are taking for their preferred candidates, such as a female enthusiast of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te surprising him with a sudden kiss during a photo, and supporters of Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih waving the national flag at his events. The hairstyle news is another example of the enthusiastic participation of Taiwanese citizens in the elections, showcasing their support in diverse and creative ways.
2024/01/07 16:31
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Jaw Shaw-kong urges China for peace ahead of elections
Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong has called on China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to demonstrate goodwill ahead of Taiwan’s elections. He urged them to refrain from sending military aircraft across the median line of the Taiwan Strait, advocating for peace in the region. Jaw’s plea comes after a Newsweek report revealed that 1,709 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone in 2023, representing a 76% increase from the previous year. Although the number decreased to 80 in December, military aircraft continued to intrude in 2024. Jaw specifically named the TAO in his message, asking them to relay it to the PLA. The persistent disruptions by China with military aircraft, ships, and floating balloons have heightened tensions as Taiwan’s final presidential election of 2024 approaches, affecting both the electorate and candidates and reflecting the complex dynamics of cross-strait relations and the election.
2024/01/07 15:59
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Taiwan’s election frenzy: Final weekend rallies in Kaohsiung
The final weekend of the 2024 election race in Taiwan sees presidential candidates from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), and the Kuomintang (KMT) rallying in Kaohsiung. Lai Ching-te, the DPP’s candidate, and his running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, focus on the Fengshan District for their ’Golden Week Eve’ rally, with notable attendees such as President Tsai Ing-wen and Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai. The KMT and TPP both choose the popular Ruifeng Night Market for their night rallies, with candidates Hou Yu-ih and Ko Wen-je staggering their appearances by an hour. The KMT hosts a unity victory rally at Dream Mall, while the TPP candidate and his wife make appearances in Kaohsiung, boosting support and holding a rally at Aozidi Forest Park. Crowd control and traffic management become important considerations for the rallies at Ruifeng Night Market. As the race intensifies in the final week of campaigning, the candidates are leaving no stone unturned.
2024/01/07 14:36
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KMT rallies in Taoyuan, urges strategic voting against TPP
KMT presidential and vice-presidential candidates, Hou Yu-íh and Jaw Shaw-kong, held a ’Victory Solidarity Rally’ in Taoyuan, urging voters to reject TPP candidate Ko Wen-je for strategic voting. The event drew nearly 100,000 attendees. Former Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu criticized Ko as an ’air gun’ and emphasized the importance of victory. Han also condemned DPP candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, claiming Lai had no qualification to run for the R.O.C.’s presidency. Han questioned how Lai, a miner’s child, could become Vice President without the protection of the ROC.
2024/01/07 11:31
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TPP’s Ko Wen-je rallies for change in Taichung
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je held a rally in Taichung, urging supporters to transcend traditional Blue and Green politics. The event drew a large crowd, demonstrating strong support for Ko. During his speech, Ko expressed gratitude and reassured the audience that victory is close. He emphasized the need for better transportation systems and highlighted the potential of local industries. Ko questioned whether the Kuomintang (KMT) can effectively address day-to-day problems. He appealed to voters to set aside traditional political divides and focus on the electorate’s concerns.
2024/01/07 10:41
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Natixis: Taiwan’s economy set for growth amid 2024 election
The upcoming Taiwan presidential election is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economic growth, according to a research report by France’s Natixis Corporate and Investment Banking company. The report suggests that regardless of the election outcome, Taiwan is poised for economic growth, with the consumer and tech industries leading the way. The research predicts that economic growth could increase from 1.2% in 2023 to 2.9% in 2024. While candidates share similar social and labor policies, the report highlights the major differences in their positions on industrial and energy areas, as well as Taiwan’s economic relationship with China. The report also mentions the potential role of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je in triggering legislative instability. The incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leading in polls, is expected to continue pushing for diversified trade and investment policies, shifting focus from China to the U.S. and other Asian regions. However, achieving these targets may be challenging as Taiwan has missed out on regional trade and economic agreements such as RCEP, CPTTP, and the U.S.-led IPEF. If the Kuomintang (KMT) wins the election, they might seek closer trade and investment links with China by expanding the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), according to Natixis.
2024/01/06 17:16
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Jaw Shaw-kong takes unique stance to win over young voters
Kuomintang vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong, in a recent university Q&A session, stressed his individual stance separate from the KMT, aiming to attract young voters and promote reform within the party as Taiwan’s elections approach.
2024/01/06 17:12
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Report: Hou Yu-ih’s victory could ease Taiwan-China tensions
If Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih wins the election, Taiwan’s political and economic situation could undergo significant changes, potentially easing tensions with China, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Hou, a former police officer, has risen quickly in the political scene and is seen as a "law and order" poster child. Many Taiwanese voters are tired of President Tsai Ing-wen’s eight-year reign, especially regarding the increasing threat from China and slowing economic growth. Hou frames the election as a choice between peace and war, emphasizing the need to maintain good cross-strait relations. He accepts the 1992 Consensus and promises to restart the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (CSSTA). Additionally, Hou advocates for a tough stance against crime and opposes the abolition of the death penalty, vowing to execute capital punishment if elected.
2024/01/06 16:09
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Hou Yu-ih calls for democratic reforms, coalition gov’t
KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih proposes a third wave of democratic reforms and a coalition government, inviting individuals outside of the KMT such as TPP candidate Ko Wen-je and Foxconn founder Terry Gou. He criticizes DPP candidate Lai Ching-te for lack of transparency regarding the Medigen Covid-19 vaccine and accuses the DPP of improper governance and corruption. The campaign rally in Tainan attracted 50,000 supporters with prominent KMT officials in attendance.
2024/01/06 15:08
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Ko Wen-je responds to DPP scrutiny over U.S.-China dynamics
In Taiwan’s heated presidential race, TPP candidate Ko Wen-je responds to DPP’s scrutiny, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach in managing Taiwan’s role amid U.S.-China relations.
2024/01/05 18:52
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Hou Yu-ih demands clarity from DPP on death penalty
Kuomintang candidate Hou Yu-ih confronts Democratic Progressive Party’s Lai Ching-te on his stance regarding the death penalty in Taipei. The debate intensifies following a recent school tragedy, with demands for law amendments and student safety improvements.
2024/01/04 19:57
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Hou Yu-ih unveils plan to combat school violence
Kuomintang (KMT) Presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih presents a four-point plan to address school violence, criticizing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration’s social safety net. The plan includes stricter regulations, preventive education, enhanced security checks, and tougher punishments for gang intrusions. Hou’s response comes after a high school student in New Taipei City was slashed in the neck, putting campus security under scrutiny. He questions the effectiveness of the government’s Social Safety Net 2.0 plan and calls for revisions to regulations. Tung Yao-tsung, president of the New Taipei City Parents’ Association, supports Hou’s stance and urges the Ministry of Education to focus on an intermediary education system to improve school security. Retired teacher Wang Chiung-yuan emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers the rights of all students.
2024/01/04 18:20