Kaohsiung:The Kuomintang (KMT) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates for the Kaohsiung mayoral race engaged in a televised policy forum on Saturday, where they presented their visions for the city and clashed over the issue of city funding. Both candidates, however, expressed their intention to continue several initiatives of the outgoing Mayor Chen Chi-mai.

According to Focus Taiwan, KMT lawmaker Ko Chih-en emphasized her commitment to govern beyond party lines, aiming to be a mayor for all residents of Kaohsiung. Ko, who lost to Chen in the 2022 election, highlighted her plans to support chipmaking and artificial intelligence investments while pledging to establish a fund for traditional industries.

Ko criticized the DPP's long-standing control over the city, citing illegal waste dumping in the Meinong District as evidence of weak oversight. She argued that a change in party leadership at City Hall is necessary.

Lai Jui-lung, the DPP candidate, praised Chen and past mayors for transforming Kaohsiung and urged voters to allow him to continue their work. Lai's campaign focuses on improving transportation, including metro network extensions, and enhancing the city's semiconductor industry and AI capabilities. He also plans to attract major concerts to boost tourism.

The candidates disagreed on the implications of proposed changes to Taiwan's fiscal allocation law, with Lai predicting a significant deficit for Kaohsiung, a claim Ko contested. Additionally, Ko raised concerns about Lai's campaign donations from a renewable energy company, which Lai's campaign dismissed as recycled allegations.

Both candidates were formally nominated by their respective parties, with Ko aiming to become the first KMT woman to be elected mayor of Kaohsiung. The forum, organized by the Kaohsiung City Election Commission, allowed candidates to discuss their platforms ahead of the November 28 vote. Other candidates included representatives from the Judicial Reform Party and independents.