TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) Chair Cheng Li-wen (鄭麗文) appointed former Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, speaker Wang Jin-pyng (王金平) as senior advisor on Monday (Jan. 5). Cheng led four vice chairmen to present the appointment, emphasizing Wang's pivotal role in Taiwan's post-war democratization. The move signals the KMT's effort to unite senior party figures amid Taiwan's intensifying political polarization.
Wang accepted the appointment and called for political harmony in Taiwan, urging all parties to set aside ideological differences. The former parliament president emphasized the need to resolve tensions between the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and opposition parties to foster a more stable political climate. Wang also highlighted the importance of easing cross-strait relations, referring to ties between Taiwan and China, amid the tense geopolitical landscape.
Cheng praised Wang's contributions to Taiwan, stating he holds an important place in the Republic of China's postwar democratization history and represents one of the KMT's most significant political figures. The KMT chair emphasized that the party needs Wang's wisdom to navigate the current peak of political polarization in Taiwan. Wang expressed hope that his advisory role will help the KMT gain public respect and win elections to regain governance. ◼