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 … Read more
“Full combat readiness, vigorous training, [Taiwan’s armed forces] are the guardians of national security and the defenders of freedom and democracy!” the post said. Who is running in Taiwan’s presidential race and what does it mean for Beijing? Taiwan will hold its presidential and legislative elections on Saturday. William Lai Ching-te, vice-president and candidate of … Read more
Mr Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT), China’s preferred contender, has emerged as the main challenger to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate William Lai, who wishes to continue the incumbent president’s foreign policy. The other candidate they will face is former Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je of the small Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), only … Read more
Officials privately say they will work with whoever wins the election, and hope for a clear result that leaves no margin for doubt. They have observed what they described as interference and disinformation by Beijing and fear a “too close to call” election could lead parties to blame external factors and destabilise the region. As … Read more
Despite the criticisms, Mr Chen said he still found his experience studying in China invaluable. He said that Taiwanese youths need more exposure in order to truly understand China, before passing judgement themselves. The cross-strait integration plan unveiled by the Chinese State Council is part of China’s longstanding strategy to foster closer ties with Taiwan. … Read more
They chat about their experience and goals as they drive from the city to a country road before they reach the coast. “You can drive better than me,” Tsai tells Lai after she hands him the key and steps out of the car. Lai responds: “She’s here. We have no problem.” Hsiao Bi-khim, his running … Read more
Beijing has warned Washington that it will send the “wrong signals” to supporters of Taiwan independence if an unofficial delegation visits the self-ruled island following Saturday’s presidential election. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters on Thursday that Beijing had expressed “strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition” to what she called “irresponsible remarks” made by US … Read more
Advocacy and activism are part of daily life in Taiwan, and activism starts from a relatively young age through activities such as participation in students’ associations in high school. Taiwan’s youth voters are seen as a key segment, and presidential candidates and parties have tried to win them over in the Jan 13 election. On … Read more
During the conversation, a man and a woman discuss a wide range of issues including disagreements within the DPP about personnel as well as whether to play down the party’s stand on independence for Taiwan. Tsai has not commented publicly on the recording, which has not been independently verified. 10:34 What Taiwan’s presidential election will … Read more
Regardless of who wins the January 13 election, Chen and other representatives of Taiwanese businesses – from fish farms to chemical manufacturers – say they are now clear-eyed about the need to minimise as much as possible their dependence on trade with mainland China as they expect more turbulence in cross-strait relations. Beijing’s dilemma if … Read more
