Crucial vote: Taiwanese go to the polls to decide their country’s future
Saturday January 13, the Taiwanese are called to the polls to elect their deputies as well as the new president of their country. This election is of crucial importance as tensions with China have never been higher. Three candidates are in the running: Lai Ching-te, from the ruling party, Hou Yu-ih, from the main opposition party, and Ko Wen-je, outsider in this election.
This year’s presidential election is particularly anticipated in Taiwan. After eight years of governance by Tsai Ing-wen, the outgoing president, voters are called upon to choose her successor. Lai Ching-te, vice chairman of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), is considered the favorite to take over. However, the outcome of the election remains uncertain, as no party has ever managed to win three consecutive presidential elections in Taiwan.
The campaign themes that have dominated in recent weeks have been the cost of living, the right to housing and social inequalities. But it is the question of relations with China which took a preponderant place in the debates. Tensions between the two countries have in fact intensified under the presidency of Tsai Ing-wen, in particular because of China’s ambitions for reunification vis-à-vis Taiwan. These tensions have further increased in recent weeks, with increasingly frequent Chinese military exercises and the presence of Chinese spy balloons in the Taiwanese sky.
Lai Ching-te, who displays a firm position vis-à-vis Beijing, is considered the most pro-independence candidate. He is described by China as a “troublemaker” and a “separatist”. Yet he maintained a cautious and moderate posture toward China throughout his campaign, advocating a status quo while strengthening the island’s military defense. It also leaves the door open for exchanges and cooperation with China, with mutual respect and on an equal footing.
Whatever the outcome of this election, it is clear that the future of Taiwan and relations with China will be front and center. The new president will face major challenges in preserving the island’s sovereignty and identity while maintaining a delicate balance with China. The decision taken by voters this Saturday could have lasting consequences on the political and geopolitical scene in the region.