The Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan’s main opposition party, elected Cheng Li-wun as its new leader, starting November 1. Cheng opposes increased defense spending and aims to ensure peace with China, which claims Taiwan as its own. Despite losing the presidential election last year, the KMT and its ally hold the most seats in parliament, complicating the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s efforts to pass legislation.
Cheng, a former lawmaker, described her leadership as a way to foster regional peace and protect Taiwan. She has publicly stated her lack of support for boosting the defense budget, a priority for the current administration, which has backing from the U. S. Cheng won the election with over 50% of the vote, defeating former Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin. However, turnout was below 40% among party members.
Allegations of Chinese interference marked the election, with KMT vice presidential candidate Jaw Shau-kong claiming disinformation campaigns against Hau. Cheng dismissed this as irresponsible political rhetoric. Taiwan will hold mayoral elections next year, which will be significant in gauging support for the KMT ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
With information from Reuters
