TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense plans to enhance security readiness for 40 hours in preparation for Taiwan's presidential and legislative elections, , starting from 5 p.m. on Jan. 12 to 8 a.m. on Jan. 14.
Approximately 5,000 military personnel may face voting challenges, a number similar to the 2020 general elections.
However, the presence of naval and air force personnel, 24-hour on-call missile units, and air force operations management on standby is expected to exceed the 2020 levels.
The ministry has instructed its forces to compile rosters for Election Day and implement rotation measures to ensure military personnel can exercise their voting rights.
A month before the election, in compliance with regulations, the ministry typically plans combat rotation for units in Taiwan and its islands to maximize voter turnout.
Nevertheless, military officials noted that since August of the previous year, People's Liberation Army vessels and aircraft have periodically crossed the median line of the strait, leading to tense military situations on both sides.
This differs from the 2020 presidential election and may result in a higher number of naval and air force personnel, 24-hour on-call missile units, and air force operations management on standby compared to 2020.
Regarding soldiers' voting, those stationed far from their registered residences usually vote in the morning and then return to their camps by noon to switch with standby soldiers, who subsequently cast their votes.