China Warns Taiwanese Voters Ahead of Election, Condemns US Involvement

In the lead-up to the Taiwanese presidential election, China issued a warning to voters in Taiwan, urging them to make the “right choice” just two days before the critical vote. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, and the outcome of the election could significantly impact relations between the two entities.

China’s warning specifically targeted the ruling party candidate, William Lai, suggesting that his victory would jeopardize relations. The Taiwan Affairs office in Beijing accused Lai of promoting separatist activities and warned that his election could push Taiwan closer to war and decline.

Lai, a member of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has advocated for the preservation of Taiwan’s sovereignty and has called on voters to “choose the right path.” His main opponent, Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT), has echoed Beijing’s concerns, labeling Lai as a threat to relations with China.

The political landscape in Taiwan is a crucial point of contention in the broader geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States. Taiwan, considered a key flashpoint, holds significance in the battle for dominance in Asia.

China’s statement comes in the wake of the US warning Beijing against escalating tensions before the elections. Washington cautioned against any actions that could stoke tensions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in the region.

In response, China criticized what it referred to as “brazen chattering” by the US, and urged Washington to refrain from commenting on the election. The foreign ministry in Beijing issued a rebuke, asserting that the US should avoid intervening in Taiwan’s elections to prevent damage to US-China relations.

Furthermore, the US announced its intention to send an unofficial delegation to Taiwan after the elections, drawing further condemnation from China. The spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry expressed “resolute opposition” to the US discussing Taiwan’s elections and urged them to avoid causing damage to bilateral relations.

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Joseph Wu responded to China’s interference, criticizing Beijing for its “repeated interference” in Taiwan’s election process. Wu called on Beijing to cease meddling in other countries’ elections and focus on its own affairs. As Taiwan prepares for the presidential election, tensions between China and the US, as well as within the Taiwan Strait, remain high.

Input From BBC