TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) denied claims that he is forming a “Chiang Army” for next year’s local elections following high-level leadership changes in the city government on Sunday.

The Taipei City Government replaced the directors of the sports, youth, tourism and communications, Hakka affairs, and research departments, along with its deputy spokesperson, PTS reported. The reshuffle included three media personalities and the appointment of the city’s youngest and first female sports director.

“The city government team should be younger, and more female voices should be heard so the entire team is more dynamic and innovative,” Taipei City Government Deputy Spokesperson Yeh Hsiang-yuan (葉向媛) said. She dismissed the idea of a “Chiang Army,” instead calling it a “Taipei Team.”

Chiang reiterated the statement when asked about the changes on Monday. According to CNA, he said he recruited his new communications director Yu Hsiang (余祥) and Deputy Spokesperson Wei Wen-hsuan (魏汶萱) for their media expertise and experience, not for the 2026 elections.

Chiang emphasized the need for qualified and experienced staff while also bringing in young energy and female representation to enhance vitality and creativity within the government.

When asked whether his team had begun public image and opinion polling preparations ahead of next year’s elections, Chiang dismissed the speculation, telling reporters they had “a rich imagination.” He said all leadership staff are focused on assisting the city government’s various initiatives.

Chiang was elected Taipei mayor in 2022 and is widely expected to seek re-election in 2026. A January RW Media online poll put his approval rating at 55%, while a Taipei City Government telephone poll placed it at 67%, UDN reported.