William Lai, also known as Lai Ching-te, from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won Taiwan’s presidential election on Saturday (January 13), despite China’s warnings not to vote for him. Lai, the current vice president of Taiwan, garnered around 40% of the vote share after counting was done from over 90% of polling stations as of Saturday evening. Also in Explained | Taiwan votes on January 13: Amid tensions with China, why these polls are significantIn November 2019, Lai was elected as the vice president. AdvertisementThe roots of tensions between Lai and China go back to 2017, when he described himself as a “pragmatic worker for Taiwan independence”. Tough road aheadThe biggest challenge that Lai as president will face is how to protect Taiwan from China’s interference.

Source: Indian Express January 13, 2024 17:41 UTC