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Voting Date: 13 January | Voting time: 0800-1600 hours

Taiwan is all set to conduct the 16th Presidential Election on 13 January. The Ministry of Labor has declared it a holiday for all eligible workers. It is not only significant to Taiwan’s political discourse but also holds the capability of setting the tone for the global geopolitics of 2024. Being a deciding factor in the larger US-China rivalry, the election outcome is also likely to impact the global emiconductors industry, scope of Taiwan’s potential reunification with China, stability in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. Reports suggest that China has intensified grey zone tactics to influence Taiwan’s Presidential Election.

The frontrunning contestants are the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Lai Ching-te and Kuomintang (KMT) Hou You-yi. Both the parties have sought China as their respective trump cards – while DPP promotes proIndependence and anti-reunification stance; KMT takes a friendlier approach to China. Around 19.5 million voters are estimated to participate and decide on important domestic issues like minimum wage, cost of living, energy security as well as the regional status quo. Heavy security deployments along the Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) and Taiwan strait remain likely. Heightened security measures are also anticipated across the country, especially Taipei, thus, prompting business organizations to prepare suitable mitigation measures for contingencies.

Risks

  • Rise in Chinese Military activities near Taiwan
  • Supply Chain disruptions
  • Disinformation and misinformation to influence the election
  • Cyber threats
  • Poll-violence
  • Escalations over South China Sea dispute
  • Intensification of US-China rivalry

Important Dates

  • Election – 13 January (0800-1600 hours)
  • Result – 13 January (late evening)
  • Swearing-in ceremony – 20 May
  • New legislators for Legislative Yuan will take office on – 01 February
Election

Restrictions During Election:

  • Online discussions, community postings, and public broadcasts of polling information related to candidates or elections are prohibited.
  • Further, foreign workers are prohibited from;
    • Participating in election-related work before 0700 hours and after 2200 hours during the campaign period (until 12 January).
    • Engaging in election-related work on polling day (e.g., distributing pamphlets, sending messages, publishing information).
    • Preventing political parties or candidates from conducting election activities.
    • Inviting foreign nationals, Mainland Chinese, Hong Kong, or Macau residents to publicly support, speak on behalf of a candidate, participate in rallies, or solicit votes.
  • Campaigning is restricted within 50 metres of polling stations.
  • Intimidation or coercion of voters is prohibited.
  • Ban on using public services for campaign purposes.
  • Dissemination of false information or propaganda is strictly prohibited and closely monitored.
  • After the election, it is prohibited to display or reveal the contents of the election ballot to any other individual.
  • In case of violation of above rules:
    • Fines ranging from TWD 100,000 to TWD one million. For political parties or candidates, fines can reach TWD 200,000 to TWD two million.
    • Foreign workers’ employment permit will be revoked in accordance with the Employment Service Act, leading to repatriation to their home country and a permanent prohibition from working in Taiwan.
sources

Voting Requirements:

  • Must be a citizen of the Republic of China (ROC).
  • 20 years of age or older.
  • Residence:
    • Presidential Election: Reside in Taiwan for no less than six consecutive months.
    • Legislative Election: Reside in the corresponding electoral district for no less than four consecutive months.
  • Must be registered in the household registry for the respective election precinct.
  • Valid ID like a national ID card or passport is required at the polling station.
  • Eligible overseas citizens may apply to vote. Required documentation includes a copy of the valid ROC passport information page and a stampfree return envelope with applicant details.

Prohibited Items in Polling Stations:

  • Mobile phones equipped with cameras, except for powered off devices.
  • Use of photographic equipment for spying on voters’ election ballots.
  • Prohibition against placing anything other than electoral votes into the ballot box or tearing electoral votes.
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Recommendations

Organisations:

  • Given that 13 January is declared a holiday, it is advised to not schedule any important meeting or task on that day.
  • Since security becomes a concern during elections, advised to offer transportation facilities to employees (especially, female employees) a few days ahead and after the polls.
  • Unscheduled blackout or power outages cannot be ruled out, advised to arrange for adequate backups.
  • Growing foreign interference in Taiwan’s Election may risk cybersecurity, therefore, run a thorough check of all systems and update all software.
  • Given that Chinese military incursions over the ADIZ and Taiwan Strait are on the rise, supply chain disruptions cannot be ruled out. Advised to plan for delays while confirming or placing orders.
  • Ensure all doors and windows are secured at the end of each business day in order to minimise the impact of any sudden outbreak of violence or act of vandalism.
  • If operating in close proximity to a polling booth, have an emergency exit plan in place. Ensure that exits are clear and visibly marked for all and undertake simulations involving all employees.
  • It is also recommended to arrange for strict entry-exit policy into the office premises for the week preceding and succeeding the election day.
  • It is also advised to run a security check of all the physical facilities, flammable items, CCTVs, electronic appliances, and conduct fire safety audits.
  • Organisations should encourage employees to take the time to verify the authenticity of calls, emails, and texts before communicating sensitive information.
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Individuals:

  • Advised to remain vigilant of your surroundings and inform the local authorities in case any suspicious object or activity is located.
  • Taiwan authorities may issue alerts (as witnessed on 08 January following the launch of a satellite from the Sichuan province) upon perceiving any Chinese grey zone activity, in such a case, advised to not panic and follow the guidelines of the authorities.
  • Recognising the gravity that the election holds for both Taiwan and regional stability, advised to not spread, or react to rumours. Rely on official or credible sources of information.
  • Elaborate security checks at airports may lead to congestion and operational delays. Commuters are advised to reach airports well in advance (three hours in prior for inbound flights and four hours for international flights).
  • Given that authorities tend to strengthen security checks during elections, it is advised to carry proper identity proofs when stepping outside. If availing private or personal vehicles, carry essential vehicle documents as well.
  • Advised to avoid making sensitive comments both in public discussion and social media platforms during elections.
  • Advised to carry a portable charger when going out and ensure that cellular phones are adequately charged and have enough balance for making calls.
  • Keep emergency numbers handy, on speed-dial as well as in writing.
  • Ensure that personal vehicles are serviced and have adequate fuel.
  • MitKat advises to steer clear of protest sites and remain vigilant of situational updates.
  • Last but not the least, voters are advised to exercise their Right to Vote responsibly, while ensuring personal safety and precautions against the COVID-19.

Emergency Contact Numbers:

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