Taiwan’s KMT and People’s Party Forge Alliance for 2026 Elections, Targeting Key Counties
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A strategic partnership between Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) and the People’s Party is rapidly taking shape ahead of the 2026 nine-in-one general election, with both sides signaling a willingness to collaborate in a bid to avoid a repeat of past electoral defeats. The emerging “Blue-White” coalition, as it’s being dubbed, is focusing on joint candidate selection in four key counties and cities.
A Response to Past Failures
The impetus for this alliance stems from a desire to overcome the challenges faced in previous elections. Leaders from both parties acknowledge the need for unity to effectively challenge the current ruling party. On December 26th, leaders from the People’s Party and the KMT held discussions regarding this potential collaboration, specifically addressing the lessons learned from the last presidential election.
Formalizing Cooperation: The Working Group
To facilitate this cooperation, the KMT Central Standing Committee established a “2-party consultation working group” on December 24th. Li Zhehua, chairman of the KMT Organization and Development Conference, confirmed that the group will prioritize discussions regarding candidate selection in four specific areas: Yilan County, Chiayi City, New Taipei City, and Hsinchu. “They can proceed step by step, discuss how to cooperate according to the work progress of both parties, and jointly recommend candidates with the best chance of winning,” Li stated.
Candidate Recruitment and Early Signals
The People’s Party has already taken steps to signal its intentions, recruiting Zhang Qikai, a member of the White Party committee, to run for mayor of Chiayi. This move was reportedly discussed with KMT officials beforehand. According to Li Zhehua, a recent phone conversation with Zhou Yuxiu, Secretary-General of the People’s Party, confirmed that Zhang Qikai’s recruitment was aligned with the broader Blue-White cooperation strategy.
The KMT is also navigating existing political commitments. Following the acquittal of Gao Hong’an in a second trial related to corruption allegations, the party has signaled its support for his potential re-election as Hsinchu Mayor. However, former KMT spokesman He Zhiyong also intends to contend for the mayoral position, asserting the KMT’s need to be represented in the race. A senior official indicated that the party is adopting a “principle of comity” regarding Gao Hong’an’s situation, while also acknowledging He Zhiyong’s ambition.
Expanding Collaboration: Miaoli County
The spirit of cooperation extends beyond candidate selection. On December 26th, Miaoli County Magistrate Zhong Dongjin announced the appointment of Lai Xiangling, executive director of the People’s Party Policy Association, as his deputy county magistrate. This appointment is viewed as another indication of the growing alignment between the two parties. Li Zhehua clarified that the decision was based on Lai Xiangling’s qualifications and local ties – she is a native of Miaoli’s Sanyi Township – rather than a formal merger initiative.
Looking Ahead
The formation of this working group and the initial steps toward joint candidate selection represent a significant development in Taiwan’s political landscape. The success of this “Blue-White” alliance will likely hinge on the ability of both parties to navigate internal ambitions and forge a unified strategy for the 2026 elections. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this collaboration can translate into tangible electoral gains and reshape the balance of power in Taiwan.
