Lai Mao-ching and Shen Chen-nan register first as “Hui-Guo” alliance backs new candidates

Two Democratic Progressive Party candidates in Tainan sought an early start by registering on the first day of candidacy, backed by a group of legislators and city councilors known as the “Hui-Guo” alliance, a pun suggesting success.

Lai Mao-ching is running in Tainan’s fourth district, while Shen Chen-nan is contesting the eighth district. Legislator Kuo Kuo-wen and Legislator Lai Hui-yuan joined the registration event, along with councilors Huang Chao-hui, Wang Hsuan-mao, Tsai Li-ching and Yu Chu-ching. Councilor Shen Chen-tung, who is preparing to hand over his seat, also attended.

Kuo said Lai had worked as an aide at his Yujing service office for seven years. Shen had assisted his brother, Shen Chen-tung, at the councilor’s service office for eight years. Kuo said both had the experience to serve as councilors and that their victories would be important to keeping the DPP above half of the seats on the Tainan City Council.

Lai Hui-yuan described the party’s process as a form of democratic succession. She said both first-time candidates and councilors moving into senior roles should uphold the DPP’s principles and serve residents.

Yu Chu-ching wore a horse costume, representing the idea of taking the lead and achieving success. Huang said he and other councilors were accompanying the two prospective newcomers on the first registration day to show determination and move quickly in the campaign.