TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Ko Wen-je, chairman and presidential candidate for the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), has surpassed Lai Ching-te, chairman of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and Hou Yu-ih, the presidential candidate of the Kuomintang (KMT), according to the latest TVBS poll.
This development serves as a wake-up call for the DPP, which responded by strongly criticizing both the KMT and TPP's handling of the Straits Forum during an event held on June 18 (Sunday). Earlier that day, the establishment of Lai's Supporters Association drew thousands of supporters. Lai took the opportunity to criticize the Kuomintang (KMT) for endorsing the Straits Forum.
He strongly rebuked the KMT, stating that their decision to travel to China and align with the mainland's opposition to Taiwanese independence is outrageous. "The purpose of the Straits Forum is clearly for 'unification.' Chinese leaders are advocating the '1992 Consensus' and opposing Taiwanese independence, and now we see that the KMT and even other political parties are echoing that stance," Lai said.
Lai's insinuation towards the TPP stemmed from reports that some TPP politicians will likely attend the forum. According to the TVBS poll, Ko is leading ahead of Lai even in the DPP strongholds of Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Penghu.
Lai acknowledged that the DPP is currently not in a favorable position but assured his supporters that the party will approach each event seriously and with high standards, hoping to regain the understanding of society.
"Regarding the sedation case in New Taipei City, I believe the focus should be on the children. The New Taipei City government should provide a clear explanation," Lai also took the opportunity to criticize the KMT's handling of the controversial drugging case.
Whether it is Ko Wen-je or Hou Yu-ih, Lai must strategize carefully and make precise strikes to secure more support and win the ultimate presidential race.