Although Taiwan's opposition Democratic Progressive Party is on the comeback trail, it is a long one that could be made bumpier by internal rivalries. The revival of its fortunes is owed to three main factors. First, memories of the corruption which ended in the disgrace of former party leader and President Chen Shui-bian have faded. Current leader Tsai Ying-wen may lack charisma but is trusted and lacks enemies. Second, the party has switched off its pro-independence rhetoric which alienated many in the decisive middle ground of Taiwan politics who prefer an ambiguous status quo in relations with the mainland. Third and perhaps most important, is growing dissatisfaction with President Ma Ying-jeou.
Taiwan's DPP Starts to Get Its Act Together
Taiwan's DPP Starts to Get Its Act Together
Taiwan's DPP Starts to Get Its Act Together
Although Taiwan's opposition Democratic Progressive Party is on the comeback trail, it is a long one that could be made bumpier by internal rivalries. The revival of its fortunes is owed to three main factors. First, memories of the corruption which ended in the disgrace of former party leader and President Chen Shui-bian have faded. Current leader Tsai Ying-wen may lack charisma but is trusted and lacks enemies. Second, the party has switched off its pro-independence rhetoric which alienated many in the decisive middle ground of Taiwan politics who prefer an ambiguous status quo in relations with the mainland. Third and perhaps most important, is growing dissatisfaction with President Ma Ying-jeou.
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