TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Election Day is witnessing enthusiastic voter participation, as early reports from a New Taipei polling station in Banqiao District indicate a significant engagement with a 15-minute wait time right from its 8 a.m. opening. This robust turnout reflects the citizens' keen interest in their democratic process.
President Tsai Ing-wen, along with other Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, made their electoral choices before 9:30 a.m. Echoing this commitment, former President Ma Ying-jeou of the Kuomintang (KMT) and the party's president and vice president candidates also cast their votes, demonstrating widespread participation across political lines.
Record Number of Polling Stations and Diverse Choices
A staggering 17,795 polling stations are operational, accommodating a large number of voters. These elections are pivotal, not just in determining the president and vice president but also in electing 113 members to the parliament. This includes district and at-large legislators and representatives for indigenous people, making it a comprehensive electoral exercise.
Voters are tasked with casting three ballots - one each for the presidential and vice-presidential candidates, district representatives, and at-large seats. Reflecting on the 2020 elections, the DPP, under President Tsai's leadership, clinched a second term with a commanding 61 seats, while the KMT secured 38 seats and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) 5.
This year's elections, however, pose a unique challenge of securing a parliamentary majority. A presidential victory without a legislative majority could lead to a divided legislature, complicating essential inter-party dialogue and consensus, especially on critical issues like cross-strait relations and budgetary decisions.
Efficient Vote Counting and Fair Process
The vote tallying process is set to begin immediately after the polls close at 4 p.m. Taiwan time. The Central Election Commission aims to declare the results by 8 p.m., emphasizing a prompt and efficient counting process. In the event of a close race, where the winning margin is less than 0.3 percent, an automatic recount will be initiated, ensuring the accuracy and fairness of the election results and upholding the integrity of Taiwan's democratic values