Thousands to rally for Taiwan election, China vows to ‘smash independence plots’
Tens of thousands of people are set to attend final pre-election rallies in Taiwan on Friday ahead of critical presidential and parliamentary polls, while China’s defence ministry has issued a warning, vowing to smash any Taiwan independence plots. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which rejects China’s territorial claims and champions Taiwan’s separate identity, is seeking a third term in office with its candidate, current Vice President Lai Ching-te. China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, has framed the elections as a choice between peace and war, urging Taiwanese to make the right choice.
China’s defence ministry spokesperson, Zhang Xiaogang, stated that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army would remain on high alert and take necessary measures to crush any form of Taiwan independence plots and defend national sovereignty. In response, Lai accused China of interfering in the vote through disinformation campaigns and placing military and economic pressure on the island.
The DPP has rejected China’s sovereignty claims and emphasized that Taiwan’s future should be decided by its people. China, on the other hand, has repeatedly denounced Lai and refused his calls for talks. As Taiwan gears up for the election, tensions between the two sides remain high.
Lai is facing two opponents for the presidency – Hou Yu-ih of Taiwan’s largest opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), and former Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je of the newly established Taiwan People’s Party (TPP). Both Lai and Hou have accused each other of supporting positions aligned with China. While the KMT and TPP seek a change of government after eight years of DPP rule, the DPP is determined to maintain its hold on power.
China’s influence looms large over Taiwan’s political landscape, with concerns that the incoming president will face pressure from China, including military maneuvers near the island. Taiwan’s government officials believe that China may stage these maneuvers in the spring, following the election.
As the election approaches, tensions increase between the DPP, KMT, and TPP. The TPP, seeking to break the dominance of the two major parties, has gained support among young voters with its focus on issues such as the high cost of housing. The party’s leader, Ko Wen-je, advocates for re-engagement with China while protecting Taiwan’s democracy and way of life.
Polls will open on Saturday morning and close in the afternoon, with hand counting of ballots commencing soon after. The result is expected to be announced later on Saturday when the defeated candidates concede and the winner delivers a victory speech.
As Taiwan prepares for a critical election, the future relationship between Taiwan and China remains uncertain, and the outcome of the election will undoubtedly have significant implications for both sides.
(This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by our staff.)
