Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the differing political stances of the Kuomintang (KMT) leadership in relation to various elections, highlighting the emphasis on the concept of "China" during the party chair election, while downplaying it in the context of the Taiwan election, focusing instead on opposing "Taiwan independence" [5][8]. Group 1: Party Chair Election - The KMT will hold its party chair election on October 18, with candidates emphasizing the concept of "China" [5][9]. - Candidate Zhang Yazhong expressed a sense of despair during the debate, indicating that the KMT has not truly governed Taiwan since Chiang Ching-kuo, and criticized previous leaders for their roles in promoting "Taiwan independence" [6][7]. - Zhang also lamented the loss of the party's spirit and the abandonment of Sun Yat-sen's ideology, criticizing the educational curriculum changes that have marginalized Chinese history [8]. Group 2: Candidate Dynamics - The current KMT membership demographics show that over 65% are aged 60 and above, which influences candidates to emphasize Chinese identity [9]. - If candidate Hao Longbin wins, there may be a shift of the KMT towards the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), as indicated by his more conciliatory language towards the DPP [10]. - Conversely, if candidate Zheng Liwen wins, collaboration with the People's Party may become smoother, potentially leading to joint candidates in future elections [11]. Group 3: Policy and Strategy - Hao Longbin's recent crisis management efforts included announcing five major policies regarding cross-strait relations, aiming to gain the support of older KMT members [12]. - Zhang Yazhong criticized Hao's policies, suggesting a significant gap in their understanding of cross-strait issues [12][13]. - The contrasting styles of Zhang and Zhao Shaokang highlight the differences between a scholar's approach and a politician's pragmatism [14].

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming Kuomintang (KMT) party chair election on October 18 is marked by Zhang Yazhong's desperate and passionate appeal, reflecting a sense of hopelessness regarding the party's future and its historical significance [2][3][4]. Group 1: Zhang Yazhong's Perspectives - Zhang argues that since Chiang Ching-kuo, the KMT has not truly governed Taiwan, citing Lee Teng-hui's betrayal and the rise of pro-independence sentiments as detrimental to the party [3][4]. - He emphasizes the loss of the party's core values and the abandonment of Sun Yat-sen's ideology, criticizing the educational curriculum changes that have erased Chinese history from Taiwanese education [3][4]. Group 2: Election Dynamics - The KMT's current membership demographics show a significant aging population, with over 65% being over 60 years old, which influences candidates to emphasize Chinese identity during the party chair election [4]. - The potential outcomes of the election could lead to different strategic directions for the KMT, with possible shifts towards cooperation with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) if candidate Hau Lung-bin wins, or smoother collaboration with the People First Party if candidate Zheng Li-wen wins [5][6]. Group 3: Candidate Comparisons - Zhang Yazhong positions himself as a scholar with a deep understanding of cross-strait relations, contrasting with Hau Lung-bin's political maneuvering, which is perceived as less substantive [7]. - The election is framed as a battle between a scholar's steadfastness and a politician's adaptability, highlighting the differing approaches of the candidates [7].