[Tee tiong huat]

Taipei, Nov. 30 (CNA) Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential front-runner Lai Ching-te (賴清德) told hundreds of Taiwanese business representatives on Thurs, his govt would strive to grow Taiwan' +3.5." "If he become president, the [country's] average economic growth rate not fall below -3.5," said Lai, who is vice president in Taipei hosted by business associations.

During the tenure of former President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) from Kuomintang (KMT) from 2008 to 2016, Taiwan's economy grew by about 3%, bot over past 7-yra. President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) took office in 2016, Taiwan's gross domestic product (GDP) has grown @3.4 percent, he said.

But now leaston Nov. 28 2023 news: Taiwan's 2023 GDP growth forecast cut to 1.42%, lowest since 2008: (DGBAS) and also on Nov. 27 2023: Taiwan's economy back in contraction mode in October: NDC

However, Lai did not explain how he reaching 3.5%, other than to note "more opportunities for Taiwan" in the midst of volatile geopolitical changes. "We should aim at minimum 3.5% growth]," he said, adding that "growing by 4 percent, of course, would be even better."

The Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) under Cabinet recently trimmed its forecast for Taiwan's GDP growth in 2023 to 1.42 percent ONLY, citing a severe contraction in exports & sluggish private investment.

Lai and his two opponents - Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) of the KMT and Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) from the Taiwan People's Party - have presented their visions for growing the country's economy.

Nov. 29: Taiwan should join China-led RCEP instead of CPTPP: TPP's Ko

Nov. 27: Opposing Taiwan independence will help achieve peace: KMT's Hou

Lai also took the opportunity to address concerns raised by attendees over the current business environment in Taiwan, in particular cross-Taiwan Strait tensions and labor shortages.

Lai in recent years softened his hard line on China & endorsed Tsai's relatively moderate cross strait policy, pledged to do his utmost to maintain stability across Taiwan Strait will "fight for peace in attempt to refute suggestion made by other presidential candidates who criticized the ruling party and its candidate for pushing Taiwan to the blink of war." He reiterated his admin would remain open to dialogue with Beijing providing both sides treat each other as equals and with respect.

Drawing on his first and only visit to China in 2014 in his capacity as Tainan mayor, Lai said he would have preferred more exchanges between Taiwan and China if Beijing had not set political preconditions for engagements with Taipei.

Accepting the "1992 consensus" will not guarantee peace in Taiwan, nor will agreeing to a contentious cross-strait service trade pact or allowing Chinese students to work in Taiwan, Lai noted. Bringing Taiwan under its control, by force if necessary, has been Beijing's political goal long before the DPP was established in 1986, Lai said, arguing China's ambition was not driven by his party. He went on to say that Taiwan needs "stable and principled" leaders to handle cross-strait relations, adding that "giving in entirely to the Chinese Communist Party's positions will not bring Taiwan everlasting peace and security."

The "1992 consensus," which is publicly endorsed by the KMT's Hou, expresses the idea that there is only "one China." The KMT has maintained that both sides of the Taiwan Strait can have its own interpretation as to what "China" means, although Beijing has never formally endorsed that position. In the meantime, Hou has also said he would resume negotiations with Beijing on the cross-strait service trade agreement, and allow Chinese students to study and work in Taiwan, if elected president.

New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih delivers his speech to the business leaders in a forum in Taipei on Nov. 27, Plans to push through the trade agreement, which would have promoted greater economic integration of Taiwan with China, were shelved by the then-KMT government in 2014 following massive protests in Taipei later dubbed the "Sunflower Movement."

At Thursday's forum, several business representatives called on Lai to expand govt programs to bring in more migrant workers, arguing it would address current labor shortage facing service sector, he mentioned, in particular, labor rights groups have attributed labor shortage to companies' unwillingness to provide competitive salaries.

China 'carrot and stick' approach expected before Taiwan election: Taiwan's.

[Tee tiong huat]

Northeasterly monsoon winds will bring rain to eastern, central, & northern Taiwan Sunday (Dec. 3) and the days after, according to WeatherRisk meteorologist Wu Shengyu (吳聖宇). The north and northeast will see cooler temperatures, with daytime highs of 20-22 degrees Celsius, per UDN. The areas of Hualien and Taitung will experience highs of 24-27 C, and the south will experience highs between 27-29 C.

Temperatures at night will drop to 17-19 C in central, northern, and northeastern regions, and lows in Hualien and Taitung will drop to 19-21 C.

[Tee tiong huat]

TAICHUNG (Taiwan News) — In our Taiwan News Poll of Polls, Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih’s (侯友宜) support remained fairly stable at 20-23% from Sept. 

1 through to the registration of the presidential candidates on Nov. 24, then suddenly surged and closed the gap significantly with Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) frontrunner Lai Ching-te (賴清德). Yet neither Lai nor Taiwan People's Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) saw much of a jump in support. They remained squarely with. KMT supporters showed only roughly 60-70% support for Hou, with the "other pan-blue" category only showing about one-third of support for Hou and another one-third for Ko, and the general category of "pan-blue" in the low sixties. Comparing a Formosa poll from late 

Self-identified KMT supporters' support for Hou jumped by around 20%, which is more than quadruple the percentage KMT supporters  for Gou. Similarly, "other pan-blue" support for Hou jumped by triple. Simultaneously, support for Ko from all three of those categories more than halved during same period. Yet, Ko’s overall support has been slightly up since late October.

After previously showing tepid support for Hou, pan-blue camp is now uniting behind him, with a respectable 90% or so of self-identified KMT people supporting him. They are coming more from the Ko camp. Welcome ‘Baldy’ and ‘Golden Boy’, some were disappointed with Ko’s performance during the failed opposition unity ticket negotiations, it is far more likely that they are consolidating around Hou because of several strategic moves made by KMT and the Hou camp. First, KMT released their party's list of legislative candidates that are voted in by a vote for parties rather than district constituencies. Top on the list was former Kaohsiung mayor and the 2020 KMT presidential candidate Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), who with self-deprecating good humor campaigned for Kaohsiung mayor in 2018 using the nickname "Baldy" (禿子).
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5051636

[Tee tiong huat]

Poll shows DPP favorite for Taiwan presidency, KMT for legislature. TPP's Ko down about 10 points according to new poll, KMT's Hou continues to rise.

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) remains frontrunner for presidential race new poll, results show Kuomintang (KMT) taking the most legislative seats, while, support for Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) fall nearly ten points compared to last month. KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) continues to gain ground on the DPP’s Lai.

Formosa released poll on Monday Dec-4 showed Lai ahead with 36.6%, followed by Hou 30.5%, and Ko with 17.7%. Lai’s support is up around five points from last month’s poll, while Hou is steadily building support since it bottomed out at 17% in August.

Poll was taken days after TPP and KMT failed to agree on a joint presidential run in Nov 2023. Interviews were used to survey 1,076 people throughout each of Taiwan’s cities and counties, producing a 3% margin of error.

On parties themselves, 43.4% of respondents said they wanted to see change for ruling party after next year’s election, while 33.4% said DPP should remain. Of those who said they wanted a change, about 29% said KMT should hold the presidency and 14.5% said TPP, with the remaining responses unclear.

Meanwhile, out of the three candidates, just under 33% said they would never vote for Lai, while about 25% said the same for Ko, and 17% said the same for Hou.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5052440

[cheekopekman]

Poll shows DPP favorite for Taiwan presidency, KMT for legislature. TPP's Ko down about 10 points according to new poll, KMT's Hou continues to rise.

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) remains frontrunner for presidential race new poll, results show Kuomintang (KMT) taking the most legislative seats, while, support for Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) fall nearly ten points compared to last month. KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) continues to gain ground on the DPP’s Lai.

Formosa released poll on Monday Dec-4 showed Lai ahead with 36.6%, followed by Hou 30.5%, and Ko with 17.7%. Lai’s support is up around five points from last month’s poll, while Hou is steadily building support since it bottomed out at 17% in August.

Poll was taken days after TPP and KMT failed to agree on a joint presidential run in Nov 2023. Interviews were used to survey 1,076 people throughout each of Taiwan’s cities and counties, producing a 3% margin of error.

On parties themselves, 43.4% of respondents said they wanted to see change for ruling party after next year’s election, while 33.4% said DPP should remain. Of those who said they wanted a change, about 29% said KMT should hold the presidency and 14.5% said TPP, with the remaining responses unclear.

Meanwhile, out of the three candidates, just under 33% said they would never vote for Lai, while about 25% said the same for Ko, and 17% said the same for Hou.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5052440

Thank you for your latest updates lah!

[Tee tiong huat]

Thank you for your latest updates lah!

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei prosecutors are investigating four politicians involved in negotiations to form a “blue-white” (KMT-TPP) presidential alliance for potentially violating election regulations.

Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), KMT Chair Eric Chu (朱立倫), former President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) of the KMT, and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chair and presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) were listed on Monday (Dec. 4) as defendants in a case involving the possible breach of the Presidential and Vice Presidential Election and Recall Act (總統副總統選罷法), reported Liberty Times.

Taiwan Republic Office Director Chilly Chen (陳峻涵) filed a complaint with the Taipei District Prosecutor's Office alleging that Hou, Chu, Ma, and Ko had violated the act's collusion clause. The complaint said through coordination of Ma and Chu, who acted as intermediaries, Hou & Ko used "allocation of rights of various ministries" as the subject of the agreement.???. Complaint also claimed that the behavior of the KMT and the TPP amounted to a blatant public division of spoils, "seriously insulting the intelligence of the Taiwanese people." Like our PAP Boss arhh.

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan News Poll of Polls, Dec 5
Weighted poll of surveys

Taiwan News Poll of Polls, Dec 5
TAICHUNG (Taiwan News) — Following the formal registration of the presidential and vice presidential candidates on Nov. 24, outlets rushed to conduct polls but appear to be taking a break before releasing more.

The rolling tracking pollster Formosa, which releases polls every few days, is the only new one. The last three releases of the Formosa poll showed Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) rising sharply, Taiwan People's Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) declining sharply, and Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) rising moderately.

This could be significant as Formosa polls have tended to show a progression over time in public opinion, but the last few releases have shown the largest movement in voter sentiment since their polling began.

That is only one polling outfi,. It will take more to confirm these are indeed the trends.

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5053302

[Tee tiong huat]

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan People's Party (TPP) vice presidential candidate Cynthia Wu (吳欣盈) is suspected of failing to declare property of her foreign spouse, a Belgian baron.

Wu has been accused by a media personality of making a false declaration of property as she did not own up to the assets owned by her Belgian husband Renaud van der Elst when registering as a vice presidential candidate. In response to the accusations, Wu's spokesperson Chen Yu-cheng (陳宥丞) said that this was because registration was rushed and complex, reported.

A legal team has been consulted to coordinate with the Central Election Commission (CEC) on handling a subsequent property declaration for Wu's foreign spouse, said Chen. Say property of Wu, dubbed “Shin Kong Princess” by local media for being the 3rd generation of Shin Kong Group family empire, has drawn particular attention.

According to the commission, she owns a piece of land in New Taipei City, a property in U.K., a Mini Cooper car, savings deposits NT$2,501,687 (US$79,000), total securities amounting to NT$36,713,090, a set of sapphire jewelry worth NT$8 million, two insurance policies, and debts totaling NT$9,923,292. 

However, political commentator Huang Yang-ming (黃揚明) said on Facebook Tuesday that according to the law, the assets of the candidate's spouse must be declared as well.

Huang posted copies of the assets declaration forms for Van der Elst showing that all the boxes for assets were left empty. Huang said that unless Wu's spouse truly has no substantial assets this could be a violation of Article 2 and Article 5 of the Act on Property-Declaration by Public Servants (公職人員財產申報法) and raise suspicions of a false declaration of assets.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5053826

[Tee tiong huat]

Ko to follow Tsai’s diplomatic path but be softer on China if elected Taiwan president. Trailing in polls, Ko resorts to launching YouTube livestreaming channel. The Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) has declared his commitment to a diplomatic path aligned with President Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) amid challenges in recent polls.

Ko on Thursday (Dec. 6)  following breakdown of joint ticket talks with the Kuomintang (KMT), the largest opposition party, Ko has encountered difficulties in gaining traction against rivals Lai Ching-te (賴清德) of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) of the KMT.

Recent polls indicate Ko trailing behind, but he remains optimistic, noting that the election outcome will hinge on the youth turnout rate. He acknowledged some "turmoil" after the failed joint ticket bid but anticipated clarity within two weeks, per Mirror Media.

Responding to concerns about potential tactical voting favoring Hou, who also supports a more reconciliatory stance with China, Ko expressed confidence in retaining a steadfast base that is not easily swayed.

With limited resources, Ko's campaign has prioritized media interviews over rallies. He announced on Thursday (Dec. 7) launch "KPTV," a marathon livestreaming channel on YouTube at 2 p.m. Show will feature Ko and TPP figures engaging public on political & other issues.

Ko sees this initiative as a cost-effective response to challenges with expensive advertising, some faced denials unspecified platforms, according to his Facebook post.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5054308

[Tee tiong huat]

Former Taiwan legislative speaker joins KMT election team. [font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]Former Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng (王金平) has accepted post of chair for Kuomintang (KMT) presidential campaign’s National Support Association, reports said Thursday (Dec. 7).[/font]

[font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]Wang, 82, who headed Legislative Yuan for17 yrs, is seen as main representative for opposition party’s China-leaning native Taiwanese wing. By accepting position he might play role in KMT trying to win back Foxconn Technology founder Terry Gou (郭台銘), [/font][font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]he, the tycoon abandoned his independent presidential bid last month but has not said which candidate he would support.[/font]

[font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]On Thursday morning, KMT Chair Eric Chu (朱立倫) led presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) and running mate Jaw Shaw-kong (趙少康) on a visit to Wang. After one hour of talks, the four men appeared together, with Hou thanking the former speaker for supporting him from the start of his campaign.[/font]
[font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]Wang said that since the KMT had nominated Hou for the Jan. 13 election, his only choice had been to back the official party nominee. He called for party unity, adding that 60% of the public wanted a change of government.[/font]
[font=Helvetica, Arial, Montserrat, Tahoma, STXihei, 华文细黑, 'Microsoft YaHei', 'Microsoft JhengHei', sans-serif]The KMT leaders said the veteran former legislator would use his experience and hope nfluence to rally party support behind Hou and Jaw.[/font]

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5054595

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan schedules presidential election debate

TAIPEI: A televised debate between the three presidential candidates will take place on Dec. 30, reports said Friday (Dec. 8).

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德), Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) will face questions from five reporters at Public Television Service (PTS) in Taipei City’s Neihu District from 2 p.m. The event will be chaired by PTS Chair Hu Yuan-hui (胡元輝), per the Liberty Times.

A debate between the three vice-presidential running mates will take place Jan. 1. Hu will also chair the discussions between Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) of the DPP, Cynthia Wu (吳欣盈) of the TPP, and Jaw Shaw-kong (趙少康) of the KMT, with four media representatives asking questions.

[Tee tiong huat]

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Saturday (Dec. 9) he would unveil his blueprint for the nation during the televised debate scheduled for Dec. 30.

Public Television Service (PTS) will host the debate between the three rivals, Lai Ching-te, Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chair Ko Wen-je (柯文哲). Five reporters will be invited to ask questions.

Asked what he planned to say at the debate, Lai told reporters Saturday he would use the opportunity to present his blueprint for the country’s development, per CNA. He said his presentation would expand his support.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5056060

[Tee tiong huat]

KMT's Hou would rebuild Taiwan-China relations starting with 'low-level' exchanges

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) said if elected, he would use religious, educational, and economic exchanges to improve cross-strait relations. He is speaking to media Sun-Dec 10, he said both sides of the Taiwan Strait should work to stabilize economic, educational, religious, and cultural exchanges. Starting from these low-level exchanges will gradually generate mutual trust &help restore official mode interaction, he said.

Hou referenced stabilizing “low-level” exchanges between both sides, a concept he first proposed in August. Regarding his deputy Jaw Shaw-kong’s (趙少康) Tuesday comments that both sides should exchange military observers, Hou said that there are steps to achieve all approaches and that he will move forward from low-level exchanges.

On Saturday, Jaw told students gathered in Taichung that if he and Hou are elected, a request would be made for Taiwanese military observers to inspect military deployments on China’s coastline, per TVBS. Jaw also said Taiwan should “build as many missiles as possible” for self-defense.

Meanwhile, Sunday, KMT Chair Eric Chu (朱立倫) refuted accusations laid on Hou by Taiwan People’s Party candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲), who suggested Hou was “in a hurry” to unify Taiwan with China. Chu said Hou is a genuine Taiwan native, that suggestion was unfounded.

Chu said KMT’s internal polls show support for Hou and Jaw within 0.2% of the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴).

According to Taiwan News Poll of Polls released on Dec. 5, Lai leads the race with around 33% followed by Hou with about 29%.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5056455

[Tee tiong huat]

KMT's Hou to rebuild Taiwan-China relations starting for 'low-level' exch.
KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) said if elected, he can use religious, educational, & economic exchanges to improve cross-strait relations, he is speaked to media on Sun-Dec-10, saying both Strait should work to stabilize economic, educational, religious, and cultural exchanges. Starting from low-level exchanges  & gradually generate mutual trust & help restore official interaction. Hou referenced stabilizing “low-level” exchanges between both sides, a concept he first proposed in August. His deputy Jaw Shaw-kong’s (趙少康) comments that both sides should exchange military observers, Hou also said there are steps to achieve all approaches and that he will move forward from low-level exchanges.

On Saturday, Jaw told students in Taichung if he and Hou are elected, a request would be made for Taiwanese military observers to inspect on both military deployments, meanwhile sunday, KMT Chair Eric Chu (朱立倫) refuted accusations laid on Hou by Taiwan People’s Party candidate Ko Wen-je (柯文哲), who he suggested Hou was “in a hurry” to unify Taiwan with China. Chu said Hou is a genuine Taiwan native, suggesting is unfounded.

Taiwan News Poll of Polls Dec 5 see Lai race around 33%, with Hou about 29%, meanwhile KMT’s internal polls show supported for Hou and Jaw within 0.2% of Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴).
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5056455

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan’s presidential election scheduled for Jan. 13.

On early December, presided by Wang Huning (王滬寧), member of CCP's Politburo Standing Committee, meet was held to coordinate efforts with ministries and agencies to effectively and quietly influence outcome of Taiwan’s election. Meeting allegedly included top members of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), Ministry of State Security, Ministry of National Defense, and other agencies involved, promoting propaganda. 

Wang Huning, believed to be CCP’s spy chief was put in charge of Taiwan policy in early 2023 after China’s actions in Hong Kong undermined Beijing’s “One Country, Two Systems".

As Senior Taiwanese security officials provided a report on meeting to local & international media outlets. They demanded anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. In other words, information on meeting was likely obtained by Taiwanese intelligence operatives within CCP or someone with access to their internal records.

According to Reuters, China’s propaganda dept was tasked with consolidating efforts with a psychological warfare unit called Base 311 to influence Taiwanese voters via news reporting and various social media platforms. According to CNN, Wang told officials present to “step up” their efforts, maintaining effectiveness and subtlety. CCP is trying to ensure that “external parties” will be unable to find direct evidence of election interference, per CNN.

One key notion endorsed by the CCP is that the upcoming presidential election is a choice between “war or peace,” and that the victory of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) will increase the likelihood of war between China and Taiwan. Alternately, this suggests that a victory by Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) will preserve peaceful cross-strait relations.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5056495

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan election for 16th president and vice president will be held on Jan. 13, 2024. 

3-parties have registered presidential and vice presidential candidates, including Taiwan People's Party's (TPP) Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) & Cynthia Wu (吳欣盈), Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Lai Ching-te (賴清德) & Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴), and Kuomintang's (KMT) Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) and Jaw Shaw-kong (趙少康).

After placing three sets of cards with ballot numbers into drawing box, CEC staff conducted the drawing based on order in which each group of candidates had registered. Hsiao was the first to draw on behalf of DPP ticket as they had registered with the commission at the earliest.

When Hsiao drew the ballot number "2," she exclaimed, "Both virtues steadily moving forward!" The character "te" (德) in Lai's name means "virtue," while character "Bi" (美) in Hsiao's name means "beauty," when combined with "te" it also means virtue (美德), which is at the beginning of the slogan Hsiao called out.

Ko stepped forward next and drew the number "1." Supporters waiting outside the event quickly affixed the number to placards and yelled, "Take a chance without hesitation. No. 1 is your best choice."

Lastly, Lee Li-chen (李利貞), the spokesperson for Hou's campaign office, drew for the KMT ticket. After drawing the number "3," Lee shouted the slogan, "Vote 3 for president. He will be your solid support."
https://sgtalk.net/Thread-Why-Foxconn%E2...ion?page=5

[[[ForeverAlone]]]

No need to update so much. I only know Xi , China is WATCHING WHO will be elected.

That one anti CCP , keep claim Taiwan is Independent IF elected as new TW PE , Obviously South China sea Conflict will be even more intensive.

Whereas that one not say anti CCP. , Things will not be so complicated.

[cheekopekman]

No need to update so much.  I only know Xi , China is WATCHING WHO will be elected.

That one anti CCP , keep claim Taiwan is Independent  IF elected as new TW PE , Obviously South China sea Conflict will be even more intensive.

Whereas that one not say anti CCP. , Things will not be so complicated.

I support Taiwan Independence 100% liao lah!

[Tee tiong huat]

Lai's lead over Hou Taiwan presidency shrinks, only leads Hou by 2.6%, (less error +/-2.8%).

The newest My Formosa own poll, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) lead over Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) has reduced In latest poll from My Formosa (Tuesday Dec. 12), DPP for Lai and Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) is still in lead with 35.1%, KMT's Hou and Jaw Shaw-kong (趙少康) is gaining at 32.5%, and Taiwan People's Party's (TPP) ticket of Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) and Cynthia Wu (吳欣盈) is at 17%. The gap between Lai and Hou is now only 2.6%, less than the 2.8% margin of error.

Backing Lai fell for second time, dropping by 2.7% from 37.8%, down to 35.1%.  My Formosa survey show Hou has declined by 0.1% from 32.6% to 32.5%, while Ko's number dropped by 0.3% from 17.3% to 17%.

As election campaign enters final month, Blue (KMT) and Green (DPP) supporters are both returning to their original camps. Among those who lean toward KMT, 93.2% support Hou-Jaw ticket. Among people who lean toward the DPP, 93.4% support the Lai-Hsiao pairing.

In terms of regional support for Lai-Hsiao ticket in the Kaohsiung-Pingtung region has dropped from 47.5% to 41.7%. Regarding age groups, Ko-Ying pairing has risen from 27.2% to 31.6% among aged 20 - 29, while it has decreased from 36.7% to 33.3% among aged 30 to 39.

While, 78.8% respondents express a definite intention to vote, 13.8% indicate a possibility of voting, 2.7% might not vote, 3% definitely will not vote, and 1.8% remain undecided.

The 87th round poll was conducted on Dec. 7, 8, and 11, latest survey interviewed 1,201 people with a confidence level of 95% and maximum sampling error of plus or minus 2.8%.

Green is for Lai, blue is for Hou, and light blue is for Ko. (My Formosa image)
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5057740

[Tee tiong huat]

Lai fell for 2nd time, dropping 2.7% from 37.8%, down to 35.1%.  My Formosa survey show Hou has declined by 0.1% from 32.6% to 32.5%, while Ko's  dropped 0.3% from 17.3% to 17%.

Noted: Taiwan election for 16th president & vice president will be Jan. 13, 2024.

[cheekopekman]

Taiwan’s presidential election scheduled for Jan. 13.

On early December, presided by Wang Huning (王滬寧), member of CCP's Politburo Standing Committee, meet was held to coordinate efforts with ministries and agencies to effectively and quietly influence outcome of Taiwan’s election. Meeting allegedly included top members of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), Ministry of State Security, Ministry of National Defense, and other agencies involved, promoting propaganda. 

Wang Huning, believed to be CCP’s spy chief was put in charge of Taiwan policy in early 2023 after China’s actions in Hong Kong undermined Beijing’s “One Country, Two Systems".

As Senior Taiwanese security officials provided a report on meeting to local & international media outlets. They demanded anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. In other words, information on meeting was likely obtained by Taiwanese intelligence operatives within CCP or someone with access to their internal records.

According to Reuters, China’s propaganda dept was tasked with consolidating efforts with a psychological warfare unit called Base 311 to influence Taiwanese voters via news reporting and various social media platforms. According to CNN, Wang told officials present to “step up” their efforts, maintaining effectiveness and subtlety. CCP is trying to ensure that “external parties” will be unable to find direct evidence of election interference, per CNN.

One key notion endorsed by the CCP is that the upcoming presidential election is a choice between “war or peace,” and that the victory of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) will increase the likelihood of war between China and Taiwan. Alternately, this suggests that a victory by Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) will preserve peaceful cross-strait relations.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5056495

I think China will shoot the 1st missile lah!

[Tee tiong huat]

Lai fell for 2nd time, dropping 2.7% from 37.8%, down to 35.1%.  My Formosa survey show Hou has declined by 0.1% from 32.6% to 32.5%, while Ko's  dropped 0.3% from 17.3% to 17%.

Noted: Taiwan election for 16th president & vice president will be Jan. 13, 2024.

New Power Party to hold ‘street-side talks’ before Taiwan election

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The New Power Party (NPP) will hold hundreds of street-side talks in the run-up to Taiwan’s January election, party chair Claire Wang (王婉諭) said on Wednesday (Dec. 13).

Wang said her party grew out of the Sunflower Movement, itself a street-level movement, and said the street-side talks will be in line with the party’s commitment to local progressive values and reform, per UDN. She said that although Taiwan’s international position has advanced under the previous eight years of Democratic Progressive Party rule, Taiwan is still plagued by economic inequality.

Wang said that salaries in Taiwan are low and house prices are high, and claimed this was occurring as corrupt political actors made large personal gains. Party spokesperson Yu Chia-tang (余佳蒨) echoed Wang’s thoughts and said Taiwan’s long working hours and poor labor rights contribute to the problem.

A recent poll showed approximately 3% of those surveyed would give their party vote to the NPP in the coming election. In addition to its eight listed candidates, NPP is standing three candidates in different constituencies in Hsinchu and Taoyuan. 

Party is not running for presidency.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5058779

[Tee tiong huat]

TAIPEI: Ko Wen-je is preparing for Taiwan election eve. Taiwan People’s Party can use Ketagalan Boulevard (as he) Ko Wen-je’s (柯文哲) Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) has secured right to use Ketagalan Boulevard in front of the Presidential Office Building on Jan. 12, the day before the election.

On Wednesday TPP Spokesperson Tai Yu-wen (戴于文) said party had secured rights to Ketagalan Boulevard and Taipei’s Boai Road around the North Gate, also known as Beimen, per CNA. Applications to use Taipei’s roads can be submitted 30 days before the use date at the earliest, making Wednesday the day supporters of different parties competed to register for key election-eve event locations.

Tai said, TPP has paid deposit for rights to use the roadway is awaiting application to finalized. On (Tues) Ko’s campaign director Huang Shan-shan (黃珊珊) said up to 4-other locations have been secured for pre-election day campaign events, including in Taipei and New Taipei.
Tai said securing the roadway in front of the presidential office was thanks to the many volunteers who worked to be the fastest to register the key spot. Also on Tues, leaders of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang told UDN they would also be waiting in front of their computers at midnight, but appear to have lost out to the TPP’s speedier volunteers.

Ketagalan Boulevard is a key location for rallies in Taiwan, it used by DPP (the night before 2016 election.) 
It was also the site of one of the first mass rallies of the 2024 election’s campaign season in July, when Ko, other politicians & influencers held event to call removal of DPP from power.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5058598
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/index

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan News — Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) will resign after next month’s presidential elections, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday (Dec. 13).

Taiwanese voters will elect a new president, vice president, and Legislative Yuan on Jan. 13. However, the new president and vice president are scheduled to be inaugurated more than four months later, on May 20.

Wu said that no matter who won the election, he would step down.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5059004

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan: KMT vice chair visits China month ahead of elections

Trip organized at invitation of Taiwanese  business people. 

The weeklong visit was arranged in October at the invitation of Taiwanese business people active in China, according to the opposition party. The KMT rejected reports that Hsia would meet senior officials from the Chinese government’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), per Radio Taiwan International

KMT Vice Chair Andrew Hsia (夏立言) visiting China a month ahead of presidential and legislative elections. Official was scheduled to meet Taiwanese business people at events and seminars to address their concerns, party said. His itinerary included Chengdu, Nanchang, Zhongshan, Xiamen, and Chongqing.

The visit, which started Wednesday (Dec. 13), was motivated by concern for problems facing Taiwanese business people and investors in China, according to KMT, party emphasized it stood for democracy and peace, also to protect the interests of citizens at home and abroad.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5059347

[Tee tiong huat]

TAIPEI, TAIWAN —Analysts say China is ramping up its efforts to interfere in Taiwan’s coming presidential and legislative elections, launching high-level, coordinated dis-info campaigns on social media and sponsoring Taiwanese politicians on trips to China, hoping to sway public opinion through influential local leaders.

Analysts say Beijing’s goal is to help opposition party or China-friendly Kuomintang or KMT, win the election. “Beijing will do whatever they can to help to win, but they think they still don’t know how to do well,” research fellow@Stanford Uni's Hoover Institution, told VOA Taiwanese. authorities, last week senior Chinese officials from various govt agencies, including China’s defense ministry & Taiwan Affairs Office meet earlier this month to “coordinate” Beijing’s efforts to influence the January 13 elections.

Meeting, led by China’s fourth-ranked official, Wang Huning, reportedly assigned different tasks to several govt agencies, with Publicity Dept of Chinese Communist Party and a psychological warfare unit under People’s Liberation Army leading influence campaigns to sway public opinion.

The Taiwan Affairs Office & United Front Work Dept focus on facilitating outreach programs, according to an internal Taiwanese memo shared with Reuters. Rorry Daniels, MD director of Asia Society Policy Institute, said meeting was designed to organize Chinese Communist Party’s internal efforts to influence Taiwanese voters’ choices.
https://www.voanews.com/a/china-ramps-up...95061.html

[Tee tiong huat]

Taiwan Green Party releases gender policies, targets surrogacy ban

Gender policies to adress discrimination, sex work, workplace harassment, annual leave

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Green Party Taiwan will work to overturn restrictions on surrogacy if elected in January, the party said as it announced policies targeting gender equality on Thursday (Dec. 14).

The policies also include paid family care leave for all, improvements for sex workers, strengthening anti-discrimination laws, and improving mechanisms for reporting sexual harassment.

The party said it will seek to overturn the ban on surrogacy in Taiwan that is imposed on those who are not in a heterosexual relationship and married to their partner. In November, Taiwan’s health ministry said it would amend laws to potentially allow the practice, but has yet to overturn the ban.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5059770

[Tee tiong huat]

DPP running mate lauds Taiwan's 'cat warrior' diplomacy. Hsiao Bi-khim says Taiwan cannot be forced to do what it does not want to do

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan is pursuing “cat warrior diplomacy” to counter China's "wolf warrior" tactics, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said in a recent interview with The Economist.

Cats can find balance in complex situations, Hsiao said. She emphasized the independence of felines, saying that much like Taiwan, they cannot be forced to do what they don’t want to do. Taiwanese can be warm and cute, but don’t mess with us, she added.

The former envoy to the U.S. emphasized that the DPP's governance in the future will bring stability, responsibility, and a commitment to problem-solving.

Regarding cross-strait affairs, Hsiao said the DPP’s position was to maintain the status quo and highlight its past efforts to avoid unnecessary provocation while safeguarding Taiwan's sovereignty and cross-strait peace. This pragmatic approach is the best way to maintain Taiwan's status, as it aligns with the expectations of the majority of Taiwanese and garners more support from international friends and allies, she said.

Hsiao said that if DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德) wins the election on Jan. 13, Taiwan will continue to build partnerships with international allies and strengthen deterrence.

During a talk at National Chengchi University on Tuesday (Dec. 12), Hsiao listed three advantages of voting for the DPP:

The accumulated experience of herself and presidential candidate Lai Ching-te
Lai’s higher satisfaction rate during his tenure as Tainan mayor compared to the other two candidates’ mayorships
And the DPP's more impressive achievements over the past eight years compared to the Kuomintang’s preceding eight years.
She pledged to garner more global support for Taiwan based on maintaining the regional status quo.

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5059606

[Tee tiong huat]

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5060392

Taiwan’s 6 millionth visitor for 2023 arrives from Singapore

[Tee tiong huat]

New Power Party ‘street-side talks’ b'4 Taiwan election (NPP). Chair Claire Wang (王婉諭) said, her party grew out of Sunflower Movement, a street-level movement street-side talks will be in line with her party’s progressive values reform. She said although Taiwan’s international position under the NPP 8-yrs. Taiwan is still plagued by economic inequality. Wang said salaries in Taiwan is low & house prices are high claiming this was corrupt political made by large personal gains, spokesperson Yu Chia-tang (余佳蒨) echoed Wang’s thoughts saying working hrs is long & poor labor rights contribute to problem.

Poll showed about 3% would give her vote, and some to NPP in coming election.

NPP listing (8-candidates) is standing three candidates in different constituencies in Hsinchu & Taoyuan.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/5058779

So...KMT is losing some electoral advantage to Wang NPP in Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli. Polls show party losing support among young voters and Hakka communities.