Calls for generational change in KMT leadership have sparked a new debate within Taiwan’s major opposition party. Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan voiced strong support for younger leaders taking the reins of the Kuomintang. He argued that outdated thinking—not age—is the real issue facing the party today.
Lee emphasized that individuals whose ideas no longer reflect society should step aside. He said values must evolve if the party hopes to stay relevant. According to him, the focus should not be on age, but on vision and leadership.
Moreover, Lee pointed out that fundraising, while important, should not be the top criterion for choosing a party chair. He claimed that a capable leader would naturally inspire support, making fundraising less of a hurdle. Strong leadership, he said, brings momentum and confidence to both the base and donors.
However, controversy followed when Lee expressed openness to running for New Taipei mayor. He said he would consider it if polls showed he had the strongest support. Critics quickly labeled this as a contradiction to his earlier push for generational change in KMT politics.
Defending him, former KMT Secretary-General Lee Chien-lung argued that Lee’s point was about ability, not age. He said that selecting the best candidate—regardless of age—remains essential. Lee Chien-lung also stressed that bridging generational gaps could help the KMT move forward.
Meanwhile, current KMT Chair Eric Chu stated that the next party leader should be someone the party base genuinely supports. He reportedly encouraged Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen to seek re-election, adding another layer of speculation to the leadership contest.
Former Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin visited a prominent elder in the party, hinting at a possible comeback. Hau suggested that many in the KMT want a new leader who can repeat past electoral successes. He called for someone like former Chair Wu Po-hsiung to return the party to power.
Lu’s social media response to Hau’s post fueled speculation that she may support his bid. This added more intrigue to the already crowded leadership race. So far, seven candidates have declared their intention to run for party chair. The list includes current legislators, past county leaders, and former KMT officials. These contenders represent a wide range of experience and political backgrounds.
The race highlights a key internal struggle: tradition versus reform. The repeated call for generational change in KMTpolitics shows that many want a fresh approach. But others argue that experience and proven ability remain just as vital.
As the leadership contest unfolds, the party faces a defining moment. The outcome will reveal whether the Kuomintang truly embraces generational change—or clings to the past.
