TAIPEI: Ahead of a crucial election in Taiwan, tens of thousands of supporters gathered at lively rallies for the island’s three main political parties on Friday.
This election, closely watched globally, is considered pivotal as the winner will lead Taiwan in managing relations with an increasingly assertive China.
The bustling democracy of 23 million people faces a narrow 180-kilometer strait from communist-ruled China, which claims Taiwan as its territory.
Vice President Lai Ching-te, the front-runner for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), framed the election as a choice between “democracy and autocracy,” criticizing his main opponent Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) for being too “pro-China.” Supporters of both parties gathered in adjacent stadiums in New Taipei City, with slogans emphasizing peace and the right path.
In Taipei, backers of third-party candidate Ko Wen-je rallied outside the Presidential Office, asserting “Taiwan’s choice is Ko Wen-je.” The leader of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), Ko, criticized opponents for being stuck in ideological deadlock and attracted voters weary of constant China-focused discussions.
China, maintaining a near-daily military presence around Taiwan, engaged in “grey zone” harassment actions, causing tension in the region. In the run-up to the vote, Chinese balloons crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line, prompting Taipei authorities to condemn it as interference.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence reported a record-high of five balloons around Taiwan, with one directly over the southern tip.
The saber-rattling from China has heightened concerns, prompting calls for Taiwan to bolster self-defense measures.
At a DPP rally, supporter Yoyo Chen expressed readiness to defend Taiwan against any aggression. The election, with significant international attention, holds geopolitical importance as the next leader will shape cross-strait relations amid tensions between Beijing and Washington.
China on Thursday warned voters against choosing Vice President Lai, accusing him of provoking ‘independence.’ US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s upcoming meeting with a senior Chinese official underscore the international significance of the Taiwan election.
Despite all candidates pledging to maintain the island’s status quo and rejecting “one country, two systems,” Beijing’s preference remains unclear. Analysts highlight that, ultimately, it is the Taiwanese people who will elect their leaders, emphasizing the victory for Taiwan regardless of the election outcome.
