DPP Nominates Wu Shu-Chin to Run for Penghu County Magistrate, Opponents Express Support

Central News Agency, Penghu County, June 17

Chen Kuang-fu, the incumbent Magistrate of Penghu County who was originally nominated for re-election, suffered a serious head injury after falling in February and remains hospitalized. Today, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) convened its Central Campaign Committee and recommended nominating Chen’s wife, Wu Shu-Chin, to run for Penghu County Magistrate. Other declared candidates have expressed optimism and support for this decision.

Chen Chen-chung, the Kuomintang (KMT)-affiliated candidate for Penghu County Magistrate and current Magistrate of Huxi Township, stated that Taiwan is a diverse society and expressed respect and welcome for Wu Shu-Chin stepping forward to represent the DPP and campaign for Penghu’s future. He believes the family has made appropriate arrangements for Chen Kuang-fu’s ongoing medical care, allowing Wu to fully commit to the election.

Yeh Chu-lin, former Mayor of Magong City running as an independent, welcomed Wu Shu-Chin’s candidacy, stating that anyone willing to work for Penghu deserves encouragement and support, and pledged to join efforts to serve the county.

Hsu Chih-fu, former Deputy Magistrate of Penghu County and also running as an independent, expressed optimism toward Wu’s candidacy and welcomed more candidates joining public service.

Chou Ni-an, Chairperson of the Taiwan Solidarity Union (TSU), affirmed that each party has the right to nominate candidates and expressed support for the DPP’s nomination. She hopes to conduct joint opinion polls with the DPP to promote unity among pro-Taiwan candidates and win the election.

The upcoming Penghu County Magistrate election in December has attracted a record six declared candidates—the highest number in history. Besides Wu Shu-Chin, they include KMT’s Chen Chen-chung, independents Yeh Chu-lin and Hsu Chih-fu, marine volunteer Chen Chin-chuan, and TSU Chairperson Chou Ni-an, making this the most competitive race yet. (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150617