Discontent in KMT ranks could result in leadership challenge

Kuomintang (KMT) Chairwoman Hung Hsiu-chu (???) could face challenges from party members during the Central Standing Committee on Wednesday over her controversial decision to move forward the election for KMT chairperson, originally scheduled for late next year, a senior KMT official said on Tuesday.

KMT legislative caucus whip Liao Kuo-tung (???) criticized Hung's decision to hold elections for the KMT chairman and party representatives on May 20 next year, about two months early, at a central standing committee meeting on Dec. 21, attended by only five out of 40 members.

Liao claimed that Hung's decision violated the party's voting regulations and could only adversely impact the future development of the KMT.

"If a chairperson brazenly violates the party's internal rules, then such a violation is grounds enough for her to be forced to stand down," Liao said.

Liao also backed fellow Central Standing Committee member Yao Chiang-lin (???) who filed a civil suit against Hung on Dec. 26 over the decision.

In the suit, Yao asks Taipei District Court to overturn the decision and prevent the party from enacting the new measures.

Hu Wen-chi (???), deputy director of the KMT's Culture and Communications Committee, said the party respects Liao's opinion as it always welcomes different voices.

The Dec. 21 meeting also slated elections for Central Committee members and Central Standing Committee members for July 8 and July 29, respectively.

Former Deputy Legislative Speaker Hung has held the KMT leadership position since March. She could face a possible challenge from New Taipei Mayor Eric Chu (???) or former Vice President Wu Den-yih (???).

Source: Focus Taiwan News Channel