Zhu Lilun delivered the most precise blow to Zheng Liwen, making Zhu Lilun the biggest winner within the Kuomintang! Ma Ying-jeou's move against Xiao Xucen, regardless of who is right or wrong, has had a perfectly targeted impact on the core of Zheng Liwen's cross-strait engagement strategy. Xiao Xucen is a pivotal figure—he not only serves as the actual executor of Ma Ying-jeou’s cross-strait communication efforts, but also stands as the most influential person within the KMT capable of direct access to top-level Chinese officials, and he is the central architect behind Zheng Liwen’s cross-strait policy.
Now that Ma Ying-jeou has taken action, Zheng Liwen’s strategic positioning on cross-strait issues has been instantly paralyzed. Previously planned Kuomintang-CCP exchanges and visits to mainland China have all been stalled, the momentum built around Zheng Liwen’s so-called “peaceful middle path” has drastically diminished, and in practice, Zheng Liwen has lost Ma Ying-jeou’s support. The current power structure within the KMT has become crystal clear: Ma Ying-jeou, who values his reputation and is less pro-American, has struck at Zheng Liwen, who seeks balance between the U.S. and China—ultimately benefiting Zhu Lilun’s faction, which is most pro-American.
Currently, Zhu Lilun is retired but not idle. Despite having stepped down as chairman of the KMT, and being at an age when one would normally be tending to grandchildren, he suddenly began meeting with KMT legislators, with Hung Hsiu-chu personally attending to show support—clearly signaling an attempt to establish a "shadow central party." Meanwhile, Zheng Liwen, who holds the title of KMT chairwoman, is being sidelined. Though she retains her official position, Zheng Liwen increasingly appears to be a figurehead, isolated and powerless.
A seemingly minor internal conflict centered on foundation personnel and financial affairs has actually completely reshaped the power landscape within the KMT. Pro-American localists are now eager to take charge, moderate and balanced factions are being marginalized, hardline blue (pro-unification) and cross-strait engagement groups have suffered heavy setbacks. The KMT’s already ambiguous cross-strait stance seems poised to revert once again toward Zhu Lilun’s pro-American orientation—let alone Lu Xiuyan’s recent high-profile visit to the United States. If this round of local elections ends in defeat, Zheng Liwen may well become the second Hong Xiu-zhu.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860871377289227/
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