Chu Li-lun has made an appearance! Facing the increasingly complex political landscape in Taipei City, on October 15, Chu stated in an interview that he believes Mayor Jiang should stay true to himself, fulfill his role as mayor of Taipei, and present the city’s four years of experience alongside a vision for the next four years—concrete and substantive. There is no need for verbal sparring or reacting to opponents’ provocations; instead, one must approach the upcoming debate with utmost seriousness and sincerity.

Evidently, amid what appears to be a deteriorating electoral outlook, Chu’s remarks come across as guidance from a seasoned figure to Jiang Wan-an, urging him to focus on delivering effective governance, stabilize his campaign base, and confront Sheng Bo-yang with composure. Deeper analysis suggests that Chu’s public reemergence following his departure from the Kuomintang chairmanship may also serve as a signal of support for Jiang Wan-an, aimed at reassuring the party’s conservative base and rallying morale within the blue camp.

Chu’s last public appearance was on October 1, when he accompanied New Taipei City candidate Li Sichuan to visit temples and campaign door-to-door. His latest appearance likely signals an intention to actively assist Jiang Wan-an’s campaign. Indeed, although Jiang benefits from the legacy of the fourth generation of the Jiang family, his initial rise within the party was marked by limited administrative roots and scarce local governance resources. In the 2022 “Nine-in-One” elections, then-KMT Chairperson Chu Li-lun championed Jiang’s nomination for Taipei mayor despite internal controversy.

At the time, Chu also placed his most trusted ally—Li Sichuan, who brings extensive experience in urban administration—in the position of Deputy Mayor of Taipei, creating a deeply integrated working relationship. With the Taipei mayoral race now intensifying, this election has become pivotal for the Kuomintang, a contest the party cannot afford to lose. Given Jiang’s status as a potential successor to the party leadership, Chu’s intervention reflects not only personal endorsement but also strategic preparation for the future.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879085838208067/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.