DPP National Congress to Discuss 2026 Election Nomination Rules

Taipei: The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is set to deliberate on the regulations governing nominations for Taiwan's 2026 local elections during its annual national congress scheduled for Saturday. These discussions are pivotal as they will shape the party's strategy in nominating candidates for key positions such as city mayors, county magistrates, and city and county councilors. According to Focus Taiwan, the draft regulations were approved by the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) earlier this month. The guidelines propose that President Lai Ching-te, who is also the party chairperson, will nominate candidates currently serving their first term as mayors or magistrates. These nominations will require the CEC's approval. For local government leaders completing their second term, including those in Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Chiayi County, primaries will be organized by the "2026 election strategy committee." The committee responsible for election strategies will have its members nominated b y the party chairperson and their appointments approved by the party's central standing committee. The regulations also detail the process for selecting a single nominee in municipalities not under DPP governance, with provisions allowing the CEC to approve alternative plans for special cases. Once the regulations are enacted, all potential nominees must comply with party rules, avoiding personal attacks or any actions that could harm the party's reputation. Violations of these regulations will result in disqualification from candidacy consideration. Additionally, the draft regulations introduce weighted mechanisms in the nomination process for municipal councilors to foster new talent within the party.