Taiwan’s two primary opposition parties have reached an agreement to determine a joint presidential ticket for the upcoming January elections based on opinion polls, according to statements from the parties.
This decision-making process follows the backdrop of Beijing’s interference, with China considering Taiwan its territory, leading to increased pressure on the island to acknowledge its sovereignty claim, a position Taiwan vehemently rejects.
Vice President Lai Ching-te, representing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as the presidential candidate, has consistently held the lead in opinion polls. Meanwhile, contenders from the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), Hou Yu-ih, and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), Ko Wen-je, have been vying for the second position.
Despite acrimonious discussions over the past month, the KMT and TPP have struggled to agree on a united presidential bid, particularly on the selection of the presidential candidate and running mate. In a recent meeting facilitated by former president Ma Ying-jeou, a senior KMT member, the parties decided to use opinion polls conducted between Nov. 7 and this Friday to determine the composition of the joint presidential bid, with the results to be announced on Saturday.
Hou emphasized collaboration regardless of who assumes the lead or deputy role, reflecting the commitment to unity within the opposition alliance.