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🇹🇼 Taiwan /Elections & Politics

Ex-Mayor Chiu to Run for Changhua Magistrate, Criticizes Party Nominations

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Former Changhua Mayor Chiu Chien-fu announced he will declare his candidacy for the 2026 Changhua County magistrate election by the end of June.
  • Chiu criticized the nomination processes of both the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) for the election.
  • DPP candidate Chen Su-yueh and KMT candidate Wei Ping-cheng responded to Chiu's criticisms, with Chen emphasizing her leading poll numbers and Wei urging continued effort.

Former Changhua Mayor Chiu Chien-fu is set to announce his bid for the 2026 county magistrate election by the end of June, following his loss in the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) primary. Chiu has been vocal in his criticism of the nomination controversies within both the DPP and the Kuomintang (KMT).

I am the one with the highest poll numbers.

— Chen Su-yuehResponding to Chiu's criticism of the DPP's primary and poll credibility.

During a program appearance, Chiu asserted his intention to run and directly attacked the nomination methods of the major parties. In response, DPP candidate Chen Su-yueh strongly defended her primary win, stating she had the highest poll numbers and that her nomination considered other factors. She urged Chiu to prioritize the party's overall interests and the development of Changhua County.

What is the credibility of the polls you conducted yourself?

— Chen Su-yuehQuestioning Chiu's claims of leading in his own polls.

Kuomintang candidate Wei Ping-cheng acknowledged Chiu's comments as a form of encouragement to work harder. Wei, who emphasized his local roots in Shetou, contrasted himself with perceived "airdropped" candidates. He believes voters prioritize practical policies and welfare over party affiliation, urging a focus on substantive policy proposals to gain voter support.

We hope he can consider the bigger picture and that running for election is to achieve Changhua County, not myself.

— Chen Su-yuehAppealing to Chiu to prioritize the party and county's interests.

Chen reiterated that her candidacy aims to benefit Changhua's residents, not personal ambition, and that she represents the will of the people. Wei views Chiu's remarks as a call to action, reinforcing his commitment to his campaign. Both candidates are gearing up for a potentially competitive election, with Chiu's potential independent candidacy adding another layer of complexity.

I respect Chiu Chien-fu's comments and will take them as a reminder and spur to continue working hard.

— Wei Ping-chengReacting to Chiu's criticisms and potential candidacy.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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