Taiwan’s KMT leadership election concluded with former legislator Cheng Li-wun winning the top position. The KMT leadership election drew attention because it signals a new direction for the opposition party. Cheng secured nearly half the votes from party members, defeating her nearest rival, former Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin, by a margin exceeding 10%.
Cheng Li-wun will officially assume her role during a party congress scheduled soon. Incumbent chair Eric Chu congratulated Cheng shortly after preliminary results indicated her win. Chu chose not to seek another term, while other potential contenders, such as Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, declined to enter the race. Lu remains a possible candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
Cheng’s political career began with the Democratic Progressive Party before switching allegiance to the KMT. Her victory in the KMT leadership election comes at a crucial time. The party faces upcoming local and mayoral elections in late 2026, along with presidential and legislative contests in early 2028. The KMT hopes to reverse its fortunes after losing three consecutive presidential elections.
During the campaign, Cheng positioned herself as a strong pro-China voice within the party. In contrast, Hau Lung-bin presented a more moderate image, aiming to regain broad public support. Party insiders had anticipated a close race between the two candidates, but Cheng ultimately led the field of six contenders. Legislator Lo Chih-chiang trailed with about 10% of the vote, while other candidates received significantly fewer votes.
The KMT reported that 331,145 party members were eligible to vote, although voter turnout was expected to remain under 50%. This low turnout highlights ongoing challenges the party faces in energizing its base. The new leader must focus on rebuilding trust and winning critical elections to restore the KMT’s influence.
Experts note that Cheng’s election represents a strategic shift towards a more assertive stance on cross-strait relations. Observers expect her leadership to emphasize party unity and consolidate support ahead of the next electoral cycle. However, her ability to appeal to moderate voters remains uncertain.
Looking ahead, the KMT leadership election sets the stage for the party’s efforts to reclaim power in Taiwan’s complex political landscape. The coming years will test Cheng’s leadership as she navigates internal party dynamics and external political pressures. Success in the upcoming elections will determine whether the KMT can regain its role as a dominant force in Taiwanese politics.
