Ko Wen-je: Li Chen-hsiu's Zhubei mayoral bid should challenge 'mainland spouses' right to participate in politics

Former Taiwan People's Party (TPP) legislator-at-large Li Chen-hsiu has declared her intention to run for mayor of Zhubei City in Hsinchu County, a move that has drawn considerable attention regarding its potential impact on the TPP's electoral landscape.

Ko Wen-je, former chairman of the TPP, commented on Li's candidacy, suggesting it should serve as a platform to challenge the established regulations concerning the political participation rights of spouses originating from mainland China. He asserted that the Mainland Affairs Council and the Central Election Commission should proactively address this issue and provide clear guidelines.

“

The Central Election Commission and the Mainland Affairs Council need to clearly explain whether this is permissible or not. If it is, then it is; if not, then it is not.

"The Central Election Commission and the Mainland Affairs Council need to clearly explain whether this is permissible or not," Ko stated. He referenced the complexities surrounding Li's previous role as a legislator-at-large, which he described as having caused significant trouble, emphasizing the need for government integrity.

Ko further elaborated on the need for clarity, recalling the past difficulties encountered when Li was initially allowed to register and take office, only to face subsequent challenges. He urged the relevant authorities to provide a definitive answer regarding the legality of her mayoral bid to prevent a recurrence of such issues.

“

Don't cause trouble again. The incident involving her legislative position already caused a lot of trouble. The government must have integrity.