Taiwan People's Party Fields Candidate in Hualien Mayoral Race Amidst Political Maneuvering

The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) has nominated Dai Yu-wen, a senior aide to party chairman Ko Wen-je, to contest the Hualien mayoral election. Dai, who returns to his hometown to run, faces incumbent Wei Chia-yen. The TPP's decision has fueled local speculation that it is a strategic move orchestrated by Fu Kun-chi, a key figure in the Kuomintang's Hualien chapter. Rumors suggest this is an attempt to counter Wei Chia-yen, whose relationship with Fu's faction has reportedly soured.

“

We are not here to 'disrupt,' but to transform Hualien's politics.

During a campaign stop at the Chongqing Market in Hualien City, TPP Chairman Huang Kuo-chang accompanied Dai Yu-wen and TPP county council candidate Tsai Yi-yang. Huang addressed reporters' questions about the alleged collaboration with Fu Kun-chi, stating that the TPP's objective is to "transform" Hualien's political environment and bring "new Hualien, new politics." He firmly denied that the party's participation was intended to cause disruption, emphasizing their commitment to offering quality candidates.

Dai Yu-wen expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to his hometown, leveraging his experience working with Ko Wen-je to foster progress in Hualien. The TPP's nomination of Dai, alongside Tsai Yi-yang for county council, signifies the party's ambition to expand its influence in the region. The TPP has also nominated representatives in other townships, though they have not fielded a candidate for county magistrate.

“

With Chairman Ko Wen-je and the TPP receiving significant support in Hualien in 2024, we are now nominating Dai Yu-wen for mayor and Tsai Yi-yang for county council, hoping to transform Hualien's local politics. I believe everyone has high expectations for this.

Huang Kuo-chang also commented on the TPP's local party chairman's earlier strong remarks about potential alliances, describing them as "quick-witted." He reiterated that the party welcomes support from all sectors, aiming to maximize their electoral reach. The TPP chairman stressed that their candidates, like Dai Yu-wen, possess comprehensive experience and are presenting concrete policy proposals, urging voters to consider their qualifications for transforming Hualien's political landscape.

“

I carry with me a full heart of passion, hoping to repay my hometown and make Hualien better and more progressive!