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TPP chairman calls for DPP’s graceful loss in politics
Explore how Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Ko Wen-je advises the DPP to embrace defeat gracefully and warns against the dangers of unchecked majority rule in the Legislative Yuan, highlighting the recent shift from violent to non-violent protest tactics.
2024/05/23 15:28
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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 Yuan elects new leadership amid high stakes
The 11th term legislators in Taiwan reported for duty and will elect the new Speaker and Vice Speaker of the Legislative Yuan. Notable incumbents include Han Kuo-yu, Wang Shih-chien, and Huang Kuo-chang. The KMT has put forth Han Kuo-yu and Johnny Chiang as candidates, while the DPP has nominated You Si-kun and Tsai Chi-chang. The TPP has unanimously elected Huang Shan-shan as its candidate. The KMT controls 54 seats, the DPP holds 51, and the TPP has eight. If no one secures a majority in the first round, a second round will be held. The speaker election will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the vice speaker election from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Results are expected by 5 p.m.
2024/02/01 11:35
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TPP maintains silence on legislative speaker endorsement
Read about the strategic silence of the Taiwan People’s Party as they prepare to reveal their endorsements for the speaker and deputy speaker positions. With the new legislature’s inauguration on the horizon, the TPP’s decision is eagerly awaited by both the DPP and KMT, setting the stage for a significant shift in Taiwan’s legislative landscape.
2024/01/30 17:02
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New political landscape emerges with Taiwan’s elections
Taiwan’s recent elections see the DPP securing a third term, a historic feat, but a legislative majority eludes major parties. Ko Wen-je’s appeal among young voters and improving gender balance in the legislature are key highlights.
2024/01/19 17:46
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DPP win may prompt escalated activities from Beijing
Following the victory of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan’s presidential election, a report by the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) suggests that Beijing might escalate activities in gray zone areas. The report highlights Taiwan’s increased geopolitical prominence and its pivotal role in semiconductor manufacturing, making the stability of the Taiwan Strait a key concern for the U.S. and other Western nations. The report also notes that Vice President Lai Ching-te won the election by over 40% of votes, breaking the trend of switching ruling parties every eight years since direct presidential elections were implemented in 1996. The victorious DPP aims to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses and relations with like-minded nations while resisting negotiations with Beijing. Additionally, the party seeks to reduce Taiwan’s trade dependency on China and strengthen ties with significant partners such as Australia, Europe, and Japan. With no party securing a majority in the legislative assembly, the DPP faces a "minority government and majority opposition" scenario, which could hinder the government’s legislative and budgeting process and impact Taiwan-U.S. ties. Despite the election, cross-strait relations and regional tensions are unlikely to undergo fundamental changes. Taiwan’s vital position in semiconductor manufacturing and geopolitics ensures its continued rise in importance, with the U.S. and Western nations playing a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Taiwan Strait. The upcoming U.S. presidential election in November is expected to significantly impact the U.S.-China-Taiwan triangle, and a potential return of former President Trump to the White House might please Beijing, according to the report.
2024/01/18 10:27
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KMT vows to uphold legislative integrity
The Kuomintang (KMT) responds to proposals from the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) regarding future operations in the new legislature, promising to respect the opinions of the Legislative Yuan party groups. As the majority in parliament, the KMT pledges to provide vigorous oversight and advance the issues agreed upon in the cross-party meeting with the TPP on October 30th last year. Agreed matters include peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, resumption of cross-strait dialogue, environmental sustainability, national security, public health, and strengthening the legislature’s function under the existing constitutional system. The KMT emphasizes its unchanged vision for Taiwan’s future development. Additionally, they plan to scrutinize issues such as the controversy over the purchase contracts of the Medigen COVID-19 vaccine by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. The KMT welcomes those with similar political ideals to join in preventing authoritarian one-party rule and ensuring democracy aligns with the public’s wishes.
2024/01/16 15:10
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Taiwan eagerly awaits new president, focus shifts to China
In Taiwan’s latest election, with a turnout expected to rival 2020’s, citizens eagerly await the announcement of their new president. The election’s outcome, especially its impact on Taiwan-China relations, is closely monitored.
2024/01/13 18:24
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Taiwan sees high voter turnout for key elections
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Taiwan’s Election Day, characterized by high voter turnout and active participation from major political figures. Delve into the complexities of securing a parliamentary majority and the efficient vote-counting process, upholding the democratic integrity of the elections.
2024/01/13 13:54
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Lai Ching-te kicks off campaign with 15K rally in Tucheng
Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate, held his first nation-wide campaign rally in Tucheng, New Taipei, drawing a crowd of 15,000. Lai urged support for himself and the DPP in the upcoming election, warning of the potential consequences if the DPP fails to secure a majority in the legislature. Tucheng, a stronghold for KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih, enthusiastically hosted the rally where Lai and incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen expressed gratitude for public support. Lai emphasized that the candidate with the most votes, not the highest approval rating, ultimately wins an election. Vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim pledged to boost Taiwan’s global standing. Lai called for voter support for DPP’s legislative candidates in New Taipei and criticized the KMT, while President Tsai affirmed the DPP’s commitment to the right path.
2024/01/04 14:37
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Divided legislative outlook as Taiwan gears up for elections
Taiwan braces for its January 13 elections, with no party poised for a legislative majority. The race will decide the president and all 113 parliamentary seats, setting the stage for potential cooperation challenges.
2024/01/03 17:19
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Lai Ching-te urges Taiwan to vote despite Chinese meddling
Taiwanese presidential candidate Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called on the Taiwanese people to use their votes as a defense against what he considers the most serious Chinese interference in the upcoming elections. Lai emphasized that while China has interfered in Taiwan’s elections before, the current situation is the worst. He believes that the best way to counter this interference is to ensure that the candidate supported by China does not win. Lai urged citizens to stand up against this interference by using their ballots to continue Taiwan’s progress and guarantee societal stability, economic growth, and the well-being of its people. He positioned the DPP’s battle not only against opposition parties but also against the Chinese Communist Party, underscoring the importance of maintaining a majority in the legislative yuan to prevent potential government functioning disputes. Lai kicked off his election campaign across 22 counties and cities, stating that this election is crucial for Taiwan’s future and Indo-Pacific peace stability. He encouraged the people to maintain the spirit of the past, choose the right person, and follow the right path.
2024/01/03 15:45
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DPP candidate Lai Ching-te rallies voters in Taipei
DPP candidate Lai Ching-te campaigned at a traffic intersection in Taipei, echoing President Tsai Ing-wen’s previous bid in the same location. The DPP has launched a nationwide campaign to solicit votes at over 1,000 intersections across Taiwan. Lai has called on citizens to vote for the DPP at 22 municipalities and 817 traffic intersections. He emphasized the importance of having a majority in the legislative yuan to ensure the smooth advancement of Taiwan. Lai and his vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim are positioned as candidates who can continue Tsai Ing-wen’s political course and guide Taiwan forward.
2024/01/03 14:21
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Tsai endorses DPP duo Lai and Hsiao for Taiwan’s stability
President Tsai Ing-wen endorses DPP presidential and vice presidential candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim as implementers of her diplomatic and defense policy, known as the "Tsai Ing-wen approach," emphasizing stability, robustness, and trustworthiness. During a campaign event in Hsinchu County, Tsai also supports DPP Legislative Yuan candidates Chan Chi-ti and Tseng Sheng-kai, while hinting at a potential return to teaching after her presidency. Tsai highlights past projects in Hsinchu, such as the NT$2.9 billion investment in a pipeline connecting Shihmen Reservoir to Hsinchu, ensuring the high-tech industry’s resilience during droughts. She played a key role in the infrastructure upgrades, including the groundbreaking ceremony for the pipeline project. Despite opposition obstruction, the "Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program," with a budget of NT$840 billion, was passed with DPP’s majority support. The Executive Yuan is expected to approve over NT$100 billion in funding for infrastructure projects, including extending the Wugu-Yangmei Elevated Road to Hsinchu and Toufen, and creating underground railways in Taoyuan. Tsai emphasizes the need for a parliamentary majority and urges public support for DPP’s legislative nominees.
2023/12/19 10:04
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KMT Chairman Chu eyes majority in 2024 legislative race
KMT chairman Eric Chu expresses optimism about the upcoming legislative elections and suggests that the KMT could potentially secure a majority if things go smoothly. He is joined by legislators-at-large candidates Ko Chih-en and Hsieh Lung-chieh, as they declare their commitment to victory in the 2024 elections. The KMT acknowledges that about 15 electoral districts are currently in tight races and plans to mobilize a strong team including former Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu, presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih, vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen to bolster support in these critical areas. Chairman Chu expresses confidence in the quality of the KMT’s legislative nominees and emphasizes the party’s careful and cautious approach to the election battle. With high-profile party members rallying to support candidates nationwide, the KMT is gearing up for a significant push ahead of the 2024 legislative elections.
2023/12/18 21:25
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Ko Wen-je: 70% in Taiwan reject KMT return to power
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je asserts that while 65% of people in Taiwan desire a political party turnover, there is also a 70% majority that opposes the Kuomintang (KMT) being in power. Ko highlights that around 70% of Taiwanese do not want the KMT to assume office, countering media reports on potential strategic voting effects. He suggests conducting further polls to determine the number of people who want the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to step down and those who do not wish for the KMT to take power. Ko cites Vivian Huang’s victory in the 2022 Taipei mayoral election as evidence of a true third force in Taiwanese politics. During his visit to Kaohsiung, Ko is campaigning for Tseng Yin-li, the party’s sole legislative candidate in southern Taiwan.
2023/12/16 16:00
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KMT Chairman Chu predicts major gains in legislative seats
Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu expressed optimism about the nomination of the Hou-Jaw ticket, stating that it has boosted party morale and is projected to increase the party’s number of legislative constituencies by more than ten. Chu estimated that the KMT is likely to secure 14 to 15 legislator-at-large seats, which would give them an absolute majority in the Legislative Yuan. He highlighted the stable political landscape in the Taipei-Keelung area, the advantage in the Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli area, and potential progress in the southern regions, including Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pintung. Chu also mentioned the strong performance of Mayor Chang San-cheng in Taoyuan and the popularity of former legislator Li Yen-hsiu in Taipei’s 4th election district. Despite criticism over the presence of second-generation officials on the KMT legislator-at-large list, Chu defended their selection, citing their substantial contributions to the public and their professions.
2023/12/12 18:18
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Hsiao Bi-khim advocates for DPP majority in legislature
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized the importance of the DPP holding a majority in the legislature to ensure continuous progress for Taiwan. Speaking at a women’s support group event in Tucheng District, Hsiao highlighted her past achievements, including signing the inaugural agreements of the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. She also mentioned that talks to prevent double taxation with the U.S. are nearing completion, which will enhance bilateral trade relations. Hsiao stressed the DPP government’s commitment to establishing friendly and commercial ties with the international community, urging a broader perspective beyond the focus on the 1992 Consensus. She expressed confidence in the foreign policy direction under President Tsai Ing-wen’s administration and the potential for a Lai-Hsiao team to continue this diplomatic route. Hsiao emphasized the symbolic significance of drawing number two in the election draw, representing integrity and steady advancement, and portraying the elections as a testament to Taiwan’s democratic strength. She reiterated the importance of a legislative majority for the DPP to implement stable and progressive policies, reducing resource drain from cross-party conflicts.
2023/12/12 13:26
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KMT head eyes majority, coalition gov’t in Parliament
Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu aims to secure a parliamentary majority and form a coalition government with the assistance of the Hou-Jaw ticket. Chu believes that voters will intelligently concentrate their votes at the last moment. The aversion to the Hou-Jaw ticket among competing candidates is relatively low at 13.6 percent, making it the second choice for many voters. The KMT is focused on obtaining over half of the parliamentary seats and establishing a coalition government. The party’s youngest group of legislative at-large candidates, averaging 47 years of age, reflects a youthful push in the KMT’s legislative presence. In the presidential race, the KMT is unwavering in its support for its nominated candidate Hou Yu-ih and vows to fight fiercely to unseat the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with the wisdom of the electorate.
2023/12/12 13:03
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Ko Wen-je aims for 10 seats in Legislative Yuan election
Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je, the presidential candidate for the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), aims to win a total of 10 seats in the upcoming Legislative Yuan elections. He plans to maintain President Tsai Ing-wen’s foreign affairs policies while adopting a friendlier approach to cross-strait relations and emphasizing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Despite his pro-Democratic Progressive Party stance, Ko aims for a non-partisan approach to governance, drawing on his experience as a physician. He believes that the key to his success lies in the turnout of young voters and aspires to make Taiwan a "normal country." Ko has been using his media platform, "KP TV," and participating in interviews to enhance his media presence. Cynthia Wu has been chosen as the vice-presidential candidate for the TPP. Ko hinted at the possibility of involving Terry Gou, founder of Foxconn, in the campaign after discussing economic policies with Gou’s team. While Ko did not provide specific vote estimates, he mentioned that around 5.5 million votes are needed to win the presidency. He also suggested that if the TPP and the Kuomintang (KMT) were to part ways, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) might gain a majority in the Legislative Yuan.
2023/12/07 09:58
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Lai Ching-te unveils vision for ’Made in Taiwan’ strength
DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te emphasized the importance of kindness among Taiwanese people and his vision for Taiwan’s future during his speech at the inaugural meeting of his campaign headquarters in Taoyuan. The event was attended by prominent DPP figures, including President Tsai Ing-wen. Lai’s pairing with his vice-presidential running mate Hsiao Bi-khim, dubbed the "Virtue Team," has garnered attention online. Lai advocated for democracy over dictatorship and called for support of Taiwan’s international industry without relying too heavily on China. He outlined policies to boost industries such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and green energy technology. Lai also criticized the "Blue-White Alliance" between the KMT and TPP as a merger focused on party interests and personal power. He emphasized the need for the DPP to secure a legislative majority to smoothly implement these policies.
2023/11/26 17:51
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Hsiao rallies for DPP in Hualien, attracts 2,000 supporters
Hsiao Bi-khim, a political veteran, returned to Hualien to rally support for DPP legislative candidate Chang Mei-hui despite unpleasant weather. Hsiao, who made history in 2016 by securing a majority in Hualien for the DPP, faced defeat in the 2020 legislative elections. After her loss, she was appointed to a diplomatic position in the United States. Chang emphasized the need for a representative who could continue the development work of Hsiao and her late husband, former Hualien Mayor Tien Chih-hsuan. Hualien, traditionally a stronghold for the KMT, is of great interest during election seasons. DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, Premier Chen Chien-jen, Legislative Yuan President You Si-kun, former agriculture minister Chen Chi-chung, and DPP Legislator Fan Yun also showed support for Chang.
2023/11/26 14:44
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DPP’s Lai eyes "Home Run" with 8 Taipei legislative bids
DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te and eight Taipei legislative candidates registered at the Central Election Committee (CEC) on Nov. 22. Lai encouraged his team with slogans like "8 seats to victory" and "Team Taipei! Let’s home run!" Lai expressed confidence in leading Taiwan forward despite the global situation. The DPP legislative hopefuls are Rosalia Wu, Wang Shi-chien, Hsieh Pei-fen, Kao Chia-yu, Wu Pei-yi, Hsu Shu-hua, Wang Min-sheng, and Miao Po-ya from the Social Democratic Party. Lai urged the candidates to collaborate effectively to secure all eight seats, which would give the DPP a majority in the legislature and benefit Taipei and Taiwan as a whole.
2023/11/22 15:13
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Voters divided on KMT-TPP collaboration criteria: poll
The latest poll on potential collaboration between the Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) reveals that 12% of voters believe candidate popularity in polls should be the sole basis for nomination consideration, while 20% think only party capability should be considered. However, the majority, at 47%, believe that both factors should be given equal importance. According to the survey released by the United Daily News, 60% of voters believe the popularity poll results of candidates play a crucial role in deciding the presidential and vice-presidential nominees for the potential KMT-TPP alliance. Other considerations for voters include the parties’ control over legislative seats (49%), popularity polls of the nominating parties (46%), and the ruling parties under their jurisdictions (40%). If the alliance breaks down, 33% of voters would blame the KMT, 28% would blame the TPP, 23% believe both parties are equally responsible, and 16% have no opinion.
2023/11/14 11:25
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President Tsai stresses importance of legislative majority
President Tsai Ing-wen emphasizes the importance of a legislative majority, stating that there are no issues with a dominant ruling party and highlighting the significance of the public’s will. During a campaign stop in Taichung, Tsai stresses that elections serve as a democratic supervisory process and references her experiences in previous elections. She urges the continuation of the Democratic Progressive Party’s governance, arguing against removing the ruling party from power, as it has elevated Taiwan’s global presence. These remarks come as Taiwan navigates its democratic trajectory amidst a changing geopolitical landscape.
2023/11/13 11:45