Taipei: Taiwan’s main opposition party Kuomintang (KMT) is conducting an election to select a new chairperson. The voting commenced at 8 a.m. and is set to continue until 4 p.m. across 383 polling stations throughout Taiwan. The outcome is anticipated to be announced as early as 7 p.m.
According to Focus Taiwan, six candidates are competing for the chairperson position. These candidates include former Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin, Legislator Lo Chih-chiang, former lawmaker Cheng Li-wun, former Changhua County Magistrate Cho Po-yuan, former National Assembly member Tsai Chih-hung, and NGO Sun Yat-sen School President Chang Ya-chung.
The KMT has reported that 331,410 members are eligible to participate in the election. Voter turnout is projected to be approximately 50 percent, based on figures from previous chairperson elections, as noted by the KMT.
Outgoing KMT Chairman Eric Chu remarked that the election day represents a pivotal moment for the KMT to showcase its dedication to democratic principles. He urged party members to unite in efforts to fortify and enhance the party.
The newly elected KMT chairperson is scheduled to assume office on November 1 during the party’s 22nd National Congress.
