Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou announced his intention to seek re-election as chairman of the ruling Kuomintang at a meeting of the party’s Central Standing Committee July 11.
“The party cannot afford splits or internal strife, and only through unity and reform can we get past the current difficulties,” Ma said.
The announcement came in the wake of a corruption scandal involving former Cabinet Secretary-General Lin Yi-shih.
Ma declared his candidacy to illustrate his resolve amid reports of growing calls within party ranks for him to step down as chairman to focus on running the country.
Earlier at the meeting, standing committee member Chen Ming-yi urged Ma to clarify his intentions so as to “eliminate the noise from outside.”
“I’ve stated before that I would seek re-election, but as some people seem to still be unaware of my plans, I wish to once again solemnly announce that I will run for the party chairmanship to continue leading the KMT on the path of reform,” Ma said.
The KMT chairmanship election is scheduled for mid-2013 ahead of the party’s next congress.
Taiwan Today