Tensions with Chiang Wan-an and Lu Hsiu-yen? Cheng Li-chun names 'a major KMT figure': He's the one with a thousand knots toward me

Following Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's call for an anti-toxic oil rally on Ketagalan Boulevard on July 25, KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-chun announced, after meeting with Chiang, that she would hold a gathering on the same day at the same location under the slogan 'I am human, I oppose toxic oil in Taiwan.' The appearance of two different slogans for what appears to be a single event has triggered speculation about internal unity and tensions within the Blue Camp. Cheng Li-chun directly addressed these concerns in a media interview, explaining the event planning process and current intra-party dynamics.

Two slogans for one event? Cheng clarifies smooth communication

In response to questions about differing slogans for the same rally, Cheng openly replied, 'What's wrong with having more slogans?' She emphasized that she and Chiang Wan-an previously worked together in the Legislative Yuan, sharing deep revolutionary camaraderie and maintaining direct communication channels.

Cheng revealed that during their meeting last week, due to Chiang's urgent need to return to the Taipei City Council, they immediately dove into logistical discussions—covering venue, target participants, and slogans—reaching strong consensus. She noted that the KMT National Congress is scheduled for the morning of July 25, with enthusiastic participation from Blue Camp county and city leaders, legislators, and northern councilors, all of whom have cleared their evening schedules for the Ketagalan event. The KMT Central Committee will fully manage the event details.

Rumors of tensions with Chiang and Lu? Cheng names 'him' as the one with knots

Regarding media reports suggesting tensions between Cheng and figures like Chiang Wan-an and Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen, Cheng dismissed them as overimaginative, stating her personality is open-minded and she rarely holds grudges—though others may harbor feelings toward her. She then jokingly named former National Security Council Secretary-General King Pu-tsung, saying, 'Isn’t Mr. King the only one in the KMT who truly has a thousand knots with me?'

Cheng emphasized her strong relationships within the party, noting that since switching from the DPP to the KMT, she has been warmly received. To dispel false narratives, she now actively hugs Lu Hsiu-yen whenever they meet, avoiding media interpretations of coldness. She added that many online rumors about her and her family are false and too numerous to refute individually.

DPP response? Monitoring political moves and statements

As the Blue Camp actively prepares for the July 25 Ketagalan rally, the Green Camp continues to monitor political developments. The DPP stated that Cheng Li-chun’s recent public remarks align closely with the Chinese government’s 'national unity' narrative framework, and her positions and rhetoric warrant ongoing public scrutiny.