(From AFP)
Tens of thousands gathered in Taiwan Saturday as rival presidential candidates took to the streets for “super weekend” rallies.
It is the last weekend of campaigning before the vote for president next Saturday, when the embattled ruling Kuomintang (KMT) is expected to be defeated.
Tsai Ing-wen of the main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is forecast to take the leadership as the KMT struggles for public support, due to scepticism over its China-friendly policies and anger at the island’s stagnating economy.
But KMT candidate Eric Chu still managed to garner massive crowds on the streets of Taipei Saturday afternoon, with the KMT saying 150,000 turned out for his rally.
Chu walked alongside current president Ma Ying-jeou in a march through central Taipei as supporters donned fancy dress, waved the national flag, sang and held up “Victory” signs.
Chu has emphasised the importance of stable relations with China, saying a vote for the traditionally Beijing-sceptic DPP would be a step backwards.
“We are marching together for Taiwan’s stability and let’s look to victory and success on January 16,” he told the crowds. Read more