TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The KMT is considering nominating former Disciplinary Committee Chair and lawyer Wei Ping-cheng (魏平政) as its candidate for Changhua County magistrate, a move that could sideline Legislator Hsieh Yi-fong (謝衣鳳) and other contenders.

Hsieh, a member of the influential Hsieh political family, announced her candidacy in 2025 but has struggled to gain traction without strong backing from her family, per UP Media. After New Taipei Deputy Mayor Liu Ho-jan (劉和然) declined to enter the race, the KMT began weighing Wei as a potential nominee, bypassing Hsieh, Changhua County government counselor Ko Cheng-fang (柯呈枋), and former deputy magistrate Hung Jung-chang (洪榮章).

Former lawmaker Hsiao Ching-tien (蕭景田), who is seeking to reclaim the legislative seat he lost in the 2012 general election, has proposed nominating Wei. Hsiao also offered to take over the KMT’s Changhua County Branch to help manage Wei’s campaign.

If DPP magistrate candidate Chen Su-yueh (陳素月) wins, she would vacate her legislative seat, potentially triggering a by-election. With no strong challengers expected, Hsiao could attempt a comeback in the potential 2027 by-election.

Wei’s possible nomination has already sparked backlash within Changhua’s political circles. Hsieh, who chairs the local KMT branch, warned that bypassing established candidates could make it difficult to maintain party unity, as those competing for the nomination may resist what they see as a breach of internal procedures, per Storm Media.

KMT Erlin Township Branch Chair Hsieh Yen-hui (謝彥慧) resigned over the possibility of Wei’s nomination, per CNA. While not opposed to direct appointments, she said the party’s candidate should have a strong local profile to ensure a viable campaign.

KMT member Tsao Chia-hao (曹嘉豪) also expressed concern, saying grassroots supporters are uneasy about the move, per China Times. He urged the party to select a candidate with deep familiarity with local politics and a solid support base in Changhua County.

Wei has indicated a willingness to run. Reflecting on his unsuccessful bid for Erlin Township mayor in 2005, he said the loss was due to being hastily fielded, per UDN. He added that feedback on a potential county magistrate run has so far ranged from neutral to positive.

Hsiao confirmed he had proposed Wei’s candidacy to party leadership, adding that the KMT is expected to finalize its nominee after party Chair Cheng Li-wun (鄭麗文) returns from a trip to China, per UDN.