Lee Sichuan Emerges as Unifying Figure at New Taipei Rally

On the electoral stage in New Taipei City, Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Cheng Li-wei attended a rally for Li Szu-chuan on February 2, emphasizing the party's inclusivity and unity through the metaphor, "While others have ocean currents, we embrace the sea that accepts a thousand rivers." Cheng's remarks served not only as an affirmation of Li's personal capabilities but also as a declaration of how the KMT intends to integrate diverse opinions and project an image of united progress in the upcoming local elections. She noted that Li Szu-chuan is more than just the name "Sichuan"; he represents the diversity and openness of "a thousand and ten thousand rivers," implying his ability to maintain continuous flow and coordination across different ethnic groups and issues.

Li Szu-chuan has been known for his approachable and pragmatic style since serving as the deputy mayor of New Taipei City and the district head of Xinzhuang, where he championed various infrastructure projects and social welfare initiatives. His visibility and support levels in New Taipei City have established him as one of the most competitive candidates within the party. Cheng's presence and endorsement undoubtedly provided Li with the trust and resources of party leadership, offering crucial political backing to enhance his electoral competitiveness. This move also signals that the KMT will center its campaign in New Taipei City on Li, unifying internal and external forces to counter the growing influence of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the region.

The metaphor of "the sea accepting a thousand rivers," rooted in classical Chinese literature, signifies that the ocean can accommodate various rivers, symbolizing a leader's capacity for inclusivity and open-mindedness. By likening Li to the embodiment of "a thousand rivers," Cheng suggested his ability to maintain balance and harmony among diverse ethnic groups and differing political stances. This rhetorical strategy not only highlighted Li's leadership style but also mirrored the KMT's efforts to seek consensus and build a united front both within the party and in the broader political landscape. Such language helps cultivate a positive image of party unity and stability among voters, which is significant for securing more votes in local elections.

In the local elections scheduled for 2024, New Taipei City remains a critical stronghold for the KMT. Over the past few years, the DPP has expanded its influence in the area, leading to internal debates within the KMT on how to maintain an advantage in this fiercely competitive electoral environment. Cheng's public support indicates that party leadership has positioned Li as the primary candidate, emphasizing the importance of internal unity and external cooperation. This approach not only consolidates party resources but also conveys a message of cohesion and shared future to voters, exerting a profound impact on the KMT's electoral strategy in New Taipei City.

Furthermore, Cheng's remarks can be viewed as a response to the diversity of opinions within the KMT. In recent years, different factions within the party have held divergent views on policy directions and electoral strategies. Through the metaphor of "the sea accepting a thousand rivers," Cheng stressed that all factions should focus on common goals, integrating their respective perspectives into a cohesive overall strategy. This inclusive language fosters reconciliation and collaboration within the party, while also helping to shape an image of unity and pragmatism among voters, further enhancing the KMT's competitiveness in local elections.

In summary, Cheng Li-wei's remarks at the rally for Li Szu-chuan in New Taipei City served both as an affirmation of the candidate's personal capabilities