For voter Billy Lin, 27, the appearance of a “third force” in this election – Dr Ko’s TPP – was crucial to his decision to vote, as it has widened the contest beyond the traditional two-horse race.
“The public may feel that the political achievements of the other two parties (the DPP and KMT) haven’t been very impressive, so this election is more important and unique than ever before,” he told CNA.
The research assistant hoped that Taiwan would further internationalise by leveraging its advantages in semiconductors and healthcare.
OVERSEAS-BASED VOTERS
The polls also gave a voting chance to Taiwanese living overseas, such as retired software engineer Oliver who is based in the United States and declined to reveal his surname.
He has been in Taiwan since last November for arrangements for his mother’s funeral, and attended the rallies of the DPP and KMT yesterday.
“Since I’m here, I think I should come to vote,” said the 73-year-old, adding that he felt the current government has been in power for too long.
“Voting is something every citizen needs to do, it is a basic right. I have no problem with each person having different needs and having their own bias.”
Another voter, who’s working in the US civil service and wanted to be known as Ms Lin, said she relished voting for the first time in Taiwan in over 30 years.
The 54-year-old, who was back in Taiwan to visit family, said she is voting based on the preference of her family, adding that each candidate has his positive and negative sides.
“I’m not very involved in politics but I do think it’s the obligation of citizens to vote,” she said.
Additional reporting by Tan Si Hui and Lauren Ong.
