TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan (李四川) said Wednesday he will step down once the KMT finalizes its primary process for the New Taipei mayoral race.

In an interview with political commentator Huang Wei-han (黃暐瀚), Lee denied rumors that he has already assembled a campaign team, per Liberty Times. He said his campaign would begin only after the KMT primary and any possible opposition-coalition primary shows that the public wants him to run.

Lee added there is no need for him to begin campaigning early, saying he has lived in New Taipei for over a decade and remains closely connected to local issues, per ETtoday.

Asked about Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s (蔣萬安) reaction to his plan to resign and compete in the KMT primary, Lee said the two had spent enough time together that the matter did not require further discussion. He noted that when he first agreed to serve as Chiang’s deputy mayor, he committed to a term of no more than a year and a half, yet his tenure is now approaching three years.

New Taipei Deputy Mayor Liu Ho-jan (劉和然) welcomed Lee’s decision, saying it is positive for KMT talents to want to serve the city, per NOWnews. However, Liu said any mayoral candidate must prepare thoroughly for the responsibilities of the office.

New Taipei Mayor Hou You-ih (侯友宜) also welcomed Lee’s announcement, per Liberty Times.

Legislator Su Chiao-hui (蘇巧慧), who is running for the DPP in New Taipei, responded by highlighting her own achievements, including progress on the Danjiang Bridge project, per UDN. She said many of New Taipei’s challenges have accumulated over decades and require fresh perspectives to bring meaningful change to the city.