The Kuomintang’s newly elected chairperson, Cheng Li-wen, secured her position with a slim victory of 50.15% of the votes. Medical professional and political commentator Shen Zheng-nan noted that Cheng’s win is due largely to Lu Shiow-yen’s decision not to run for the position, rather than any influence from China. He identified two significant concerns stemming from Cheng’s election: her collaboration with Lu Shiow-yen and the potential for coordination with the People’s Party.
Shen criticized members of the green camp for erroneously claiming that Cheng’s election was a result of Chinese influence. He staunchly argued that Cheng’s ascent is directly linked to Lu’s decision not to participate in the race, labeling it as a collective choice made to protect the Taichung administration from further scrutiny by opposition forces.
Cheng’s election is seen as a decision made by the KMT’s party members, raising questions about whether these members would heed directions from China. As pointed out by Shen, the position was originally intended for Lu Shiow-yen, and her unexpected withdrawal opened the doors for Cheng and others who quickly entered the contest.
Shen shared his perspective on Cheng, recalling their shared time at National Taiwan University, where he recognized her strong presence and assertiveness. However, he expressed concern over whether Cheng could effectively collaborate with Lu, especially if their opinions clash. Despite Lu’s adaptable nature, Shen warned that overlapping views could complicate party cohesion and overall effectiveness.
Additionally, Cheng has expressed strong criticism toward Ko Wen-je, indicating that she may still grapple with differing political ideologies. The opinions of other influential figures within the People’s Party regarding Cheng also pose questions about future collaborations. The dynamics between the KMT and the People’s Party will be crucial, with the risk of internal conflicts arising if the People’s Party’s more militant factions surface at pivotal moments.
Overall, while Cheng Li-wen’s election signifies a new chapter for the KMT, navigating inter-party relations will be essential for her leadership as she seeks to unify her party and strengthen its competitive edge.