TAIPEI: Millions of voters in Taiwan are going to cast their votes to elect a new president, in hopes of shaping the island’s relationship with China, on Saturday.
Tsai Ing-wen, running for a second term, favors the status quo, and does not want closer ties with Beijing while her closest rival, Han Kuo-yu, promises to ease tensions with China.
Two years ago, Ms Tsai’s party lost the local elections, but she is now ahead in the polls – which some observers attribute to the Hong Kong protests.
Tsai has vowed support for the protesters, a popular stance with those who fear Taiwan being overtaken by mainland China.
About 19 million people are registered to vote in Saturday’s election.
Polling stations are open from 08:00 to 16:00 (local time) and results are expected before the end of the day.
(Agencies)
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