President Lai Ching-te has officially appointed Hsu Kuo-yung as the new secretary-general of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). This decision follows the party’s disappointing results in recent recall elections. Therefore, Hsu Kuo-yung’s appointment aims to strengthen party leadership and unify its factions.
After the DPP suffered losses in the July 26 recall elections, Lin Yu-chang quickly resigned as secretary-general. Consequently, the party needed a strong replacement to restore confidence. Hsu Kuo-yung, a former Interior Minister and Cabinet spokesperson under Lai, quickly emerged as the top candidate.
Currently, Hsu works at Formosa TV (FTV). However, he plans to resign soon to fully focus on his new secretary-general responsibilities. His legal expertise and media experience have helped him serve effectively in government roles. Moreover, party insiders expect President Lai to make the appointment official shortly after the August 23 recall elections.
Hsu Kuo-yung has built strong relationships within the DPP. Specifically, he has been a close ally of both President Lai and Premier Cho Jung-tai for many years. In addition, he shares factional ties with former President Tsai Ing-wen. These connections could therefore help bridge divides between different party groups.
Furthermore, a party insider told UDN that Lai’s choice of Hsu shows a deliberate effort to share power across factions. Meanwhile, another source shared with Liberty Times that this appointment could allow Lai to step back from daily party management. Chen Chu, former secretary-general of the Presidential Office, praised Hsu, Lai, and Cho for their teamwork despite factional differences. She also suggested that Hsu can replicate this cooperation within the party.
DPP spokesperson Justin Wu declined to comment on the reports. Nevertheless, multiple sources confirmed that Hsu Kuo-yung will soon assume the secretary-general role. The party expects Hsu’s leadership to heal divisions and improve organizational efficiency.
In summary, Hsu Kuo-yung’s appointment marks a vital leadership change for the DPP. His role should help unify the party and strengthen its position ahead of future political challenges. Overall, this move reflects Lai’s strategic approach to managing internal party dynamics.
