The stands were packed with family and friends welcoming President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Vice president Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) into their new positions at Monday’s 520 ceremony.
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The first family of President Lai Ching-te made a rare appearance at the inauguration ceremony on Monday. First lady Wu Mei-ju (吳玫如), who normally keeps a low profile, made a rare public appearance. At the ceremony she wore a smart black dress along with a bright pink jacket that matched her husband's favorite purple tie. The couple seemed united both in fashion and attitude as they ascended to the presidential palace, remaining hand in hand as they greeted guests.
Lai’s son Lai Ting-yu (賴廷與), who received his doctorate in electrical engineering in the United States, also made a surprise appearance at his father’s inauguration. Lai’s maternal aunt and uncle could be seen in the audience, as well.
Lai wasn’t the only one supported by family on this momentous occasion. Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s (蕭美琴) mother and younger sister traveled all the way from the United States to see the ceremony in person. Both were accompanied by a small dispatch of National Security Bureau guards for their protection.
Outside of her immediate family, more than a hundred of Hsiao’s extended family and friends attended. Her fraternal aunts and several cousins visited from different parts of Taiwan, some coming up from Tainan just for the ceremony.
Indeed, President Lai and Vice President Hsiao were accompanied by an impressive entourage. One could say national matters have become quite the family affair.