The Kuomintang Party pledges peaceful relations with China during Taiwan election.

The Kuomintang's (KMT) political rally for their presidential candidate took place on Saturday and was filled with lively rock music, enthusiastic flag-waving, and passionate speeches. The crowd chanted the name of the candidate, Hou You-ih, as his running mate Jaw Shaw-kong criticized the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for leading Taiwan down a dangerous path. The KMT is campaigning on the idea that Taiwan is facing a choice between war and peace with China, which claims the island as its own and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control. The DPP, on the other hand, promotes peace and stability while pushing for progress. Both parties are trying to appeal to voters by emphasizing economic issues and the cost of living, although concerns about relations with China are also significant. Many KMT supporters believe that the DPP is too aggressive and favor a return to peaceful relations with China. They admire China's advancement in infrastructure and believe that Taiwan should work together with China instead of seeking independence. The KMT, which advocates closer ties with China, has strong support from Taiwanese businessmen who depend on trade with the mainland. However, the party also needs to cater to voters who identify themselves as Taiwanese and are not interested in unification or independence. The KMT has tried to present a more moderate image, insisting that it seeks friendlier relations with China but not advocating for unification. The party's presidential candidate, Hou You-ih, vows to protect Taiwan's democratic system and freedoms. However, aligning their rhetoric with China's language and Beijing's clear preference for the DPP's rival candidate, Lai, could harm the KMT's chances. Another risk for the KMT is uncertainty over whether a KMT government would be able to appease Beijing and guarantee peace, especially given China's stance on Hong Kong. The KMT faces a challenge in bridging the gap between the desires of Taiwan voters and the party's historical position. Overall, the KMT is at a crossroads, as it needs to decide whether it will continue to advocate for closer ties with China or embrace a more Taiwanese nationalist identity.