Hualien Mayor Wei Chia-yen Seeks Re-election; KMT Local Chapter Grants Only 'Notification of Candidacy' Status

Hualien Mayor Wei Chia-yen has completed the registration process for the KMT primary to seek re-election. However, the KMT Hualien County Committee notified him that he would not receive an official party nomination, being granted only 'notification of candidacy' (baobei) status instead. Wei stated that his father, Wei Tung-ho, suffered a health crisis and was hospitalized in the ICU following the news.

Wei expressed confusion regarding the decision, noting his status as an incumbent mayor and member of the KMT Central Committee who followed all internal procedures without facing any competitors during the registration period. He mentioned that his family has a deep history in Hualien politics, and his brother, Wei Chia-hsien, has already announced an independent bid for the Hualien County Magistrate election.

Regarding potential legal action, Wei noted that he has consulted with legal professionals about seeking an injunction to protect his right to run, though he prefers to respect party mechanisms. KMT Hualien County Committee Chairman Lu Hsin-jung responded that while Wei will not face disciplinary action for unauthorized candidacy, the party is investigating allegations that Wei supported non-KMT candidates and distributed campaign materials outside his jurisdiction. The final decision on the nomination remains subject to central party approval.