Opposition Wins Landslide in Taiwan Parliamentary Election

Taiwan’s opposition Nationalist Party has won a landslide victory in parliamentary elections, claiming 72 percent of the legislative seats. Taiwan’s Central Election Commission has declared the Nationalists winners in 81 of the 113 seats in Saturday’s election.

President Chen Shui-bian stepped down as chairman of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party after the results became clear. He said he accepts full responsibility for the Democratic Progressive Party’s loss.

A strong victory in the balloting is expected to give the Nationalist Party’s presidential candidate, Ma Ying-jeou, an edge in the March 22 presidential election. Ma has been campaigning on a theme of improving ties with China and strengthening Taiwan’s stagnant economy, which he blames on Mr. Chen’s pro-independence stance.

The number of seats in Taiwan’s legislature is being cut from 225 to 113. Unlike past elections, just one person will represent each district.

China and Taiwan split in 1949 during the Chinese civil war, and Beijing regards the self-ruled island as part of its own territory. China has threatened to use force against Taiwan if it takes steps towards formal independence.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.

by VOA News

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