This Saturday, voters in Taiwan will cast their ballots to choose a fresh president and legislature. These choices will have significant consequences for the island’s interactions with China over the succeeding four years.
The electoral contest holds momentous connotations for the tranquility and steadfastness of Taiwan, situated a mere 160 kilometers from China’s shoreline, contested by Beijing as its own land and accompanied with warnings of violent action if required. In addition to this, internal affairs such as a sluggish economic growth rate alongside exorbitant housing prices have been thrust into prominence during the election campaign.
Lai Ching-te, the Vice President of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), is seeking to take over from President Tsai Ing-wen and secure a third term for his pro-independence party. While voting in Tainan, Lai called on citizens to actively participate in casting their ballots as he emphasized Taiwan’s democratic vitality.
Hou Yu-ih, who represents the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party, cast his vote in New Taipei City. Despite being its current mayor and taking a break from official duties to campaign for presidency, he stressed the importance of post-election unity towards Taiwan’s future prospects.
Taipei resident Ko Wen-je, a member of the Taiwan People’s Party and favored by younger voters in search of an alternative to the two main parties, has exercised his right to vote. Ko is known for his frank demeanor and declared his dedication towards giving it all he’s got while remaining adaptable as circumstances arise.
At 8 in the morning, polling stations commenced their operations and were programmed to cease eight hours afterward. Candidates delivered convincing speeches during Friday night’s concluding campaign rallies with younger voters more apprehensive about their financial outlooks.
Lai discussed his transition from medicine to the political sector and how China’s military threat during Taiwan’s inaugural presidential election in 1996 inspired him to safeguard the country’s emerging democracy.
Former police chief Hou issued a warning that Lai’s position towards Beijing could potentially heighten tensions leading to war. He suggested practical dealings with China, prioritizing national security and human rights while also asserting the right of Taiwanese people to determine their own destiny.
China’s military intimidation may sway voters away from pro-independence candidates, but Taiwan has received backing from the United States. In fact, an informal delegation is slated to visit after the elections as a display of support.
According to Gabrielle Reid, an individual from the global intelligence company S-RM, Taiwan’s relationship with China and Western nations will be greatly affected by the election results. This could have a ripple effect on affairs in the South China Sea.
The discussions during the campaign were mostly dominated by domestic issues such as slow economic growth, unaffordable housing, and stagnation of wages. This was accompanied by geopolitical tensions which added to their concerns.
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The winner of the presidential election will be determined by who receives more votes, and there won’t be a runoff. As for the legislative seats, they are up for contest in districts as well as at-large positions.
