Taiwan’s presidential frontrunner accuses Beijing of unprecedented election interference
Taiwan’s vice president, Lai Ching-te, leading in the upcoming presidential election, has alleged that Beijing is employing an extensive range of tactics to influence the crucial poll, raising concerns about the future of cross-strait relations.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Lai emphasized that voters should harbor no illusions about China’s commitment to peace, revealing that he would keep diplomatic channels open with Beijing if elected.
The election, slated for Saturday, is drawing international attention, with both Beijing and Washington keenly observing as Taiwan chooses its leader amidst growing assertiveness from China.
China insists on its territorial claim over Taiwan, challenging the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) position that the island is already independent. Ongoing military activities, including the recent incursion of Chinese balloons across the sensitive median line, have been labeled as a “grey zone” harassment tactic by Taiwan and conflict experts.
Lai asserted that the current interference from Beijing is the most serious to date, encompassing political, military, economic, cognitive warfare, disinformation, threats, and incentives.
While acknowledging China’s interference in every Taiwanese election, Lai warned of the heightened nature of the latest efforts.
He stated, “It has resorted to all means to interfere with this election.”
President Tsai Ing-wen, who won a landslide victory in the 2020 election, based her success on public fears of Taiwan facing a fate similar to Hong Kong, where Beijing implemented a national security law to quell dissent.
Lai emphasized that his administration would maintain an open door for exchanges and cooperation with China, provided there is parity and dignity, but he cautioned against illusions of achieving peace through acceptance of China’s ‘one-China’ principle.
Rejecting the idea that accepting China’s ‘one-China’ principle leads to genuine peace, Lai drew parallels with Hong Kong, calling it a “false peace” without sovereignty.
He asserted that the Democratic Progressive Party’s pursuit of peace relies on strength, not goodwill.
Lai’s opponent, Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) party, has criticized Lai’s stance, portraying him as a threat to cross-strait relations.
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