The upcoming local elections in Changhua face uncertainty as the Kuomintang confronts internal divisions over candidate nominations, leading to the contested recruitment of lawyer Wei Ping-cheng, according to reporting by Chen Yi-shao. Following the nomination, KMT Chairman Zheng Li-wen has traveled south multiple times to campaign for Wei. However, KMT Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei has skipped four times not joining Zheng Li-wen in events and missed an interim standing committee meeting, prompting concern among local party grassroots.
Did You Know? KMT Deputy Chairman and Secretary-General Li Gan-long addressed the absence by stating that Wang had submitted a leave request for the interim standing committee meeting, noting that party leadership respects the request and remains confident she will eventually return to the fold.
Regarding the controversy, Wang stated in a Facebook post on September 19 that she has “always believed that a win for the people of Changhua is a true win.” She explained that despite being misunderstood by President Lai Ching-te regarding her administrative performance, she chose to participate in an official delegation visit out of respect for the head of state and a commitment to securing major local infrastructure projects. The Executive Yuan subsequently responded, with the Ministry of the Interior scheduled to review the county government’s specific district plan for the water hardware industrial settlement on September 2.
Wang also mentioned that she learned of the party’s decision to nominate Wei Ping-cheng through media reports while traveling abroad. She emphasized that she will fulfill her duties as a party member and work alongside her county government team until the final moment of her term.
Legislator Hsieh Yi-feng Addresses the Nominations
In response to the mounting political tension, lawmaker Hsieh Yi-feng spoke to reporters at the Legislative Yuan. Hsieh stated that she appreciates everyone’s concern and expressed confidence that party members will fulfill their duties to support the campaign while prioritizing their legislative responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did KMT Chairman Zheng Li-wen travel to Changhua?
KMT Chairman Zheng Li-wen traveled south multiple times to campaign for the party’s nominated candidate, lawyer Wei Ping-cheng.
How did County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei learn about Wei Ping-cheng’s nomination?
Wang stated that she learned of the party’s nomination of Wei while she was abroad on an official delegation visit.
What is the status of the water hardware industrial settlement project?
The Ministry of the Interior is scheduled to review the county government’s specific district plan for the project on September 2, following administrative engagement during Wang’s official delegation visit.
How will local leaders approach the upcoming election cycle in Changhua?