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Mass demonstrations end amid China's warning against independence

Mass demonstrations end amid China's warning against independence

Taiwan Democratic Progressive Party seeks third term with Vice President Lai Ching-te as candidate

Supporters wave flags as Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's vice president and presidential candidate of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), passes by in the back of a vehicle during a campaign event ahead of the election in New Taipei City, Taiwan , on January 12, 2024. —Reuters

In the latest pre-election rallies in Taiwan, tens of thousands gather as the nation prepares for crucial presidential and parliamentary elections.

As China issues stern warnings, framing the election as a choice between “peace and war,” the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) seeks a third term with Vice President Lai Ching-te as its candidate.

The DPP, which defends Taiwan's distinctive identity, rejects China's territorial claims and emphasizes that only the people of Taiwan can determine its future.

Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's vice president and presidential candidate of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), waves to supporters while riding in the back of a vehicle during a campaign event ahead of the election in New Taipei City, Taiwan , on January 12, 2024. —Reuters

China, maintaining a stance that it has never ruled out force to control Taiwan, calls the DPP dangerous separatists and urges Taiwanese to make the “right decision.” In response to Taiwan's air force upgrades, China's Defense Ministry vows to “crush any form of 'Taiwan independence'” and defend national sovereignty.

President Lai, committed to peace across the Taiwan Strait, accuses China of interfering through disinformation and economic pressure.

With two opponents – Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) – Lai faces challenges. Both the KMT and the TPP advocate a change of government after eight years of DPP rule, while the TPP aims to alter the bipartisan status quo.

Amid the looming threat from China, Taiwan anticipates possible pressure on its incoming president, with military maneuvers expected this spring.

People walk past a campaign advertisement for Lai Ching-te, vice president of Taiwan and presidential candidate of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and Justin Wu, candidate for member of local parliament for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), before the elections in Taipei. Taiwan January 12, 2024. —Reuters

The outcome of the election remains uncertain and each party will hold final rallies. The DPP and KMT face a formidable TPP, which represents Taiwan's third force and advocates reforms.

Ko Wen-je, the TPP candidate, focuses on everyday issues, gaining support, especially among young voters. Emphasizing the need to reengage with China without compromising democracy, Ko remains resolute against external pressures.

As polls open and close, the result, expected on Saturday night, will determine Taiwan's political landscape, marking a historic transition following the announcement of Queen Margaret II's retirement.