Taiwan People's Party's Consensus Camp
Over April 13 and 14, Taiwan People's Party (TPP) hosted a two-day Consensus Camp, which was attended by party officials and public office holders from across Taiwan. This event saw the participation of eight current legislators and candidates ranked 9-16 in the at-large legislative nominations. In his keynote speech, Party Chairman Ko Wen-je highlighted 2024 as a pivotal year for TPP and a foundational year for it to grow beyond the traditional blue-green political dichotomy and establish itself as a stable political force in Taiwan.
Chairman Ko emphasized that TPP differentiates itself through values of integrity, rationality, pragmatism, and a scientific approach to politics. He stated, "Our focus is on long-term benefits over short-term gains, on the interests of the many over the few, and on national interests over party interests. Our commitment is to transform the political culture through governance and elections, which is the essence of our party's corporate culture."
The choice of keynote speakers, including Michael You, Chairman of the Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation, and former Mainland Affairs Council Minister Lai Shin-yuan, drew significant media attention. To many, their presence suggested the TPP's emphasis on enhancing polling precision and evolving its cross-strait policy discourse. Responding to inquiries about their selection, Chairman Ko noted, "Chairman You isn't just a polling expert but also a seasoned political figure who understands the pulse of Taiwan's politics, reflecting our party's commitment to continual learning and belief that knowledge is power. As for former Minister Lai, her practical experience is invaluable in shaping our discourse on cross-strait relations."
Chairman You spoke to the importance of building a distinctive party identity that resonates with the public. He stressed the need for the TPP to champion innovative ideas and values that make a irreplaceable and tangible impact. "TPP must articulate and champion new ideas and values that not only reflect the aspirations of Taiwan's people but also clearly define our brand on significant issues," he remarked. The sessions were marked by enthusiastic discussions, with party officials actively engaging with the speakers and each other, sparking dialogue that extended well beyond scheduled times.
The Consensus Camp aimed to rigorously evaluate the strategies from the previous presidential election and lay down proactive plans for the 2026 elections, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas among party officials. This assembly of openness, both in taking and providing suggestions, was crucial in aligning our strategies with our core values, setting a decisive course for future engagements and initiatives.