As it happened: Taiwan 2024 election results - DPP's Lai secures presidency but faces a hung parliament after losing legislative majority
Vice-President William Lai Ching-te's presidential win could lead to worse ties with China while a hung parliament could lead to legislative gridlock.
Taiwan's President-elect Lai Ching-te (left) and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim attend a press conference outside the headquarters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taipei on Jan 13, 2024, after winning the presidential election. (Photo: AFP/Alastair Pike)
This audio is generated by an AI tool.
Mr Lai Ching-te of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has secured Taiwan's presidency, marking the first power transfer within the independence-leaning party in an outcome that will likely inflame cross-strait tensions and impact regional security.
But he will face off a hung parliament, the first in Taiwan since 2008 after no parties obtained a majority in the concurrent legislative polls, which could stall the passage of key laws in the self-governing territory claimed by China.
Mr Hou Yu-ih of the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) was the first to concede defeat to Mr Lai at around 8pm. Dr Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) did the same shortly after.
The unofficial tally by local broadcaster TVBS - which had counted more than 13.5 million votes as of 8.20pm - had Mr Lai in the lead with a vote share of just over 40 per cent. Mr Hou Yu-ih of the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) was second with 33 per cent while Dr Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party was third with about 26 per cent of votes.
Some 19.5 million Taiwanese were eligible to vote in today’s polls, to choose their next leader and legislators.
Highlights from Taiwan's polling day proceedings and outcomes here:
