Not Han Kuo-yu or Lu Hsiu-yen! Chiang Wan-an names a 'major figure from the Green Camp' as the best candidate for Premier: High approval ratings and truly people-oriented

Amid political turmoil sparked by a cooking oil safety dispute between central and local governments, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has openly advocated for a no-confidence motion against Premier Cho Jung-tai, asserting that Cho should resign to take responsibility. Chiang emphasized that pushing for a cabinet reshuffle would uphold accountability in governance and help resolve the current political deadlock. During an interview, he proactively named Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai as a highly suitable candidate for the next premier, praising Chen's administrative performance and stance on food safety.

Can a no-confidence motion break the political impasse? Chiang advocates for responsible governance

In a radio interview, Chiang explained that the idea of initiating a no-confidence motion emerged from consensus discussions with several Kuomintang (KMT) legislative caucus members. He pointed out that no central government official has publicly apologized or taken responsibility since the food safety incident occurred, and that it is most appropriate for the opposition to unite and hold the premier accountable for related policies.

Chiang further stated that launching such a motion requires strong consensus within the KMT and support from the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) legislative caucus to meet the necessary conditions for action. He believes that forming a new cabinet would reflect fresh public sentiment and revitalize politics, breaking the current stagnation and allowing government affairs to resume normal operations.

Why praise Chen Chi-mai? Chiang reveals his ideal premier candidate

During the interview, Chiang voluntarily brought up Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai. He noted that Chen enjoys high approval ratings and has consistently defended the food safety and health rights of Kaohsiung residents during the oil scandal, a frontline commitment to public welfare that Chiang described as admirable.

Chiang believes that appointing someone with strong public support and cross-party recognition to lead the Executive Yuan could help ease partisan tensions. However, he reiterated that the final decision on whether to pursue a no-confidence motion must respect the overall strategic planning of both the KMT and TPP caucuses.

Accused of laying groundwork for 2028? Chiang responds to political speculation

Facing speculation that his frequent comments on food safety and cabinet dissolution are aimed at building political capital for the 2028 presidential election, Chiang firmly denied such claims. He stated that he is not considering the 2028 election at all and that his top priority is securing re-election as Taipei mayor and continuing to serve the city's residents.

Chiang criticized the excessive political interpretations as attempts to deliberately divide internal unity and create conflict. He emphasized that, as a local leader, he feels pain and anger over food safety lapses, and demanding transparency and stronger regulatory oversight from the central government is a duty rooted in public service, not political calculation.