TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) held its bi-annual National Party Congress on Sunday (July 21) to determine the composition of the committees that will lead the party over the next two years. 

President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), also the DPP chair, opened the congress with a speech that called for party unity and outlined three core principles for the DPP moving forward. They include; strengthening Taiwan’s national identity, enhancing Taiwan’s democratic system of governance, and protecting freedom and human rights, reported CNA. 

“Democratic Taiwan, United in Progress” was this year’s theme. In his speech, Lai promised that under his leadership, the party would make every effort to lead Taiwan in the right direction and work hard to consolidate peace and prosperity for the nation, per UDN. 

After Lai's election which gave the DPP an unprecedented third term in power, Lai said that the DPP has entered a new chapter in the party’s history. Over the coming years, Taiwan can expect to face great challenges at home and abroad, and the party must work together to rise to the challenges of this new era, he said. 

Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) announced earlier in the week that she would not attend the congress, which many commentators said is a sign the Tsai faction is ceding power within the party to Lai’s faction. Tsai’s absence could also reduce speculation that she seeks to influence the government after leaving office. 

Former DPP President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) joined the congress to vote for committee members, but did not join the opening ceremony, per ET Today.