TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Former Legislator Chen Po-wei (陳柏惟) announced on Saturday that he had applied to join the DPP.

Chen said in a Facebook post that “protecting Taiwan cannot rely on words alone; it also requires rolling up one’s sleeves and taking action.” He said advancing Taiwan’s future “requires a stable strategic position and a professional team capable of truly carrying out plans,” which is why he decided to join the ruling party.

He said an organized force had been key to protecting Taiwan throughout its democratization, citing the growth of a shared national identity, accumulated governance experience, and resilience in the face of threats.

“My identity may change, but my spirit — dedication to Taiwan, commitment to democracy, and deep roots in this land — will remain the same,” Chen said.

Chen was elected to a Taichung legislative seat in 2020 as a member of the Taiwan Statebuilding Party, but was recalled in October 2021. After leaving the party in 2022, he joined the Taichung mayoral campaign team of DPP candidate Tsai Chi-chang (蔡其昌).