Rumors of Wei Ping-cheng's Parachuting Candidacy, Hsieh Yi-feng and 3 Others Call on Central Committee to Nominate One Person

Regarding the 2026 Changhua County Magistrate election, the Democratic Progressive Party has confirmed that Legislator Chen Su-yueh will represent the party. Although Hsieh Yi-feng, Hung Jung-chang, and Ko Cheng-fang have expressed their intention to run, the Kuomintang (KMT) has rumors circulating that the party's central committee will nominate lawyer Wei Ping-cheng, who was recommended by former legislator Hsiao Ching-tien. Hsiao Ching-tien has also taken over as chairman of the KMT's Changhua County Party Headquarters, taking on the responsibility of assisting in the election.

The KMT central committee's intention to nominate Wei Ping-cheng has sparked dissatisfaction among Hsieh Yi-feng, Hung Jung-chang, and Ko Cheng-fang. The three jointly issued a statement, explaining that the widespread rumors of a parachuted candidate for the county magistrate election have caused high concern and unease among local grassroots, leading to significant backlash.

The statement pointed out that if the county magistrate election adopts a parachuted candidate, it could affect the stability of grassroots organizations and impact the KMT's overall election strategy and chances of winning. This is because Changhua County voters have always valued local emotional connections and long-term service. If a non-locally rooted candidate participates in the election, it will be difficult to build consensus and trust in the short term. Facing an opponent who has continuously cultivated the local area, the KMT should not bear the risk of re-adjustment.

Hsieh Yi-feng and the other two suggested that, to respond to grassroots expectations and ensure victory, they recommend the central committee select one person from the three who have already expressed their intention to run for nomination to represent the KMT in the Changhua County Magistrate election. They earnestly request the central committee to carefully consider the actual local situation and grassroots voices, return to the principle of local nomination, consolidate unity, and facilitate the smooth progress of the election.

Since KMT Chairman Cheng Li-wen will finalize the Changhua County Magistrate nomination after returning from mainland China, Hsiao Ching-tien, who originally recommended Wei Ping-cheng, told the media that he has no opinion and will fully support whoever is nominated. (Edited by Chang Ming-kun) 1150412