Han wave's return? Candidate dismisses rival's influence

Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Jui-lung shrugged off concerns that a potential resurgence of the "Han wave" could impact his election prospects. Former Kaohsiung mayor Han Kuo-yu, a key figure in the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), recently appeared alongside KMT Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ke Chih-en, sparking speculation about his political influence.

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The most crucial factor is the candidate themselves.

Lai, currently a legislator, stated that both major parties' prominent figures will campaign for their respective candidates. He emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with the voters and their assessment of the candidates themselves. "The most crucial factor is the candidate themselves," Lai told reporters on July 25. He highlighted his 20 years of experience in Kaohsiung and expressed confidence in securing citizen support, pledging to be a "number one mayor" like his predecessor, Chen Chi-mai.

Han Kuo-yu's appearance at a gathering in Kaohsiung drew a large crowd, reminiscent of the "Han wave" phenomenon from his previous mayoral campaign. Lai acknowledged that President Tsai Ing-wen, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, and DPP Chairman Lai Ching-te would also campaign for him. He framed the upcoming election as a political competition where voters would choose based on the performance of past mayors from both the KMT and DPP.

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I will be a number one mayor, just like Chen Chi-mai.

Lai asserted that he would continue the progress and prosperity of Kaohsiung, building on the achievements of former mayors like Hsieh Chang-ting, Chen Chu, and Chen Chi-mai. He also pointed to Ke Chih-en's past role in a financial allocation law that allegedly cost Kaohsiung NT$20 billion, calling it a significant blow to the city. Lai positioned himself as the most suitable candidate due to his familiarity with Kaohsiung and his long-term grassroots development efforts, promising to lead the city to further advancement.

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Ke Chih-en, in the past, caused Kaohsiung to lose 20 billion NT dollars in financial allocation.