On January 13, 2024, Taiwan held its 5th direct presidential election, in which the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Mei-chin received 5,586,019 votes and were elected as the 16th President and Vice President of the Republic of China.
According to current laws, the elected President and Vice President were sworn in on May 20. Newly elected legislators reported for duty on February 1, taking their oaths of office in the presence of Chief Justice Lu Tai-lang.
With the Kuomintang (KMT) winning 52 seats, the People First Party (PFP) 8 seats, and two non-party affiliated legislators called the “blue-green independents,” a coalition with a total of 62 seats was formed, giving them an absolute majority in the legislature. The DPP only secured 51 seats, allowing the KMT to easily take control of the Legislative Yuan and elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
Led by KMT legislator Fu Kun-chi, a group of 17 legislators including regionally elected legislators went to China for a visit. On April 27, they met with the Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Wang Hu-ning. During the meeting, Wang emphasized the shared heritage and closeness between the peoples on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Fu Kun-chi expressed hope for increased exchanges and cooperation between both sides of the strait, aiming for mutual prosperity and peace, allowing Taiwan’s industries to feel the familial connection between both sides. The delegation even managed to secure field hospitals, despite ongoing military provocations by China towards Taiwan, prompting concerns over Taiwan’s future.
On May 17, the KMT joined forces with the PFP in an attempt to pass a series of parliamentary reforms through absolute majority, causing strong opposition from the DPP and resulting in injuries to several legislators in parliamentary violence.
The violence in the Legislative Yuan sparked public outrage, particularly among passionate young activists, leading to a significant protest outside the legislature. This incident raised concerns that it might ignite another wave of protests akin to the Sunflower Movement.
Amidst the political turmoil, the international community turned its attention to the presidential and vice-presidential inauguration ceremony held on May 20. A total of 51 delegations comprising 508 foreign guests from various countries attended the event to celebrate Taiwan’s democratic process.
During his inaugural speech lasting 31 minutes, President Lai mentioned “Republic of China” nine times, “Republic of China Taiwan” three times, and “Taiwan” 82 times, while affirming Taiwan’s distinct identity from the People’s Republic of China.
President Lai outlined his vision for Taiwan, emphasizing cooperation in governance, Taiwan’s democratic values as a beacon for the world, and the importance of Taiwan’s role in promoting global prosperity and peace. He outlined plans focusing on sustainable development, space exploration, and global marketing to boost Taiwan’s growth.
President Lai stressed the preservation of Taiwan’s sovereignty and urged unity for the protection of national interests against any attempts to erode Taiwan’s identity or sovereignty.
The precarious international position of Taiwan was highlighted by a congratulatory message from the US State Department to President Lai, recognizing him as the democratically elected President of Taiwan, triggering discussions on Taiwan’s international standing and its complex relationship with China.
President Lai faces the challenge of balancing domestic and international pressures while taking on responsibilities such as leading Taiwan’s representation at the World Health Assembly. The dilemma of Taiwan’s status and international recognition remains a key issue for his administration.
President Lai’s emphasis on Taiwan’s unique identity and his call to move away from the historical baggage of the Republic of China towards a modern Taiwan resonate with some sections of the Taiwanese society, highlighting the ongoing debate on Taiwan’s national identity and future path.
As Taiwan approaches its 400th anniversary on August 26 this year, the hope is for Taiwan to find its rightful place in the global community, free from past burdens and conflicts, and to continue on its path as a vibrant and independent entity.