Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) has had discussions with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) about a cabinet reshuffle, but no plans have yet been finalized. Su mentioned his discussions with Tsai to reporters during a public inspection of the Qianzhen Fishing Port in Kaohsiung. Su said he had spoken to both legislators and the president about the issue, and that there had been an in-depth exchange of opinions on all issues. He added that the president will speak publicly as soon as there is something concrete to say.
Media reports earlier this week spoke about the possibility of former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) being asked to form a cabinet and replace Su as premier. The reports also said that former Taoyuan Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan (鄭文燦) may take over as vice president of the legislature.
There has been speculation about a cabinet reshuffle since the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) poor performance in the recent local elections. The DPP won only 5 of the 21 mayor and magistrate seats that were part of the elections in late 2022. A cabinet reshuffle might allow for a new strategy for the DPP ahead of next year’s presidential elections.