Nationalist Party candidate Eric Chu acknowledged his defeat and congratulated Ing-wen on her victory. Her supporters filled streets, waving party banners and cheering to victory announcements made from a stage. The election also marked the first time the KMT has lost control of the island's legislature. The DPP took 68 of 113 seats in Taiwan's parliament compared to the KMT's 35.
At a post-election news conference, Tsai underscored Taiwan's commitment to democracy, calling it a value “deeply engrained in the Taiwanese people.” “Our democratic way of life is forever the resolve of Taiwan's 23 million people,” she said. She also acknowledged the tenuous relationship with Beijing, saying both sides “have a responsibility to do their utmost to find mutually acceptable ways to interact ... and ensure no provocation and no surprises.”
An editorial carried on China's official Xinhua news agency said there was "no denying that the DPP's return rule poses grave challenges to cross-strait relations." And a statement from China's Taiwan Affairs Office quoted by Xinhua said it resolutely opposed "any form of secessionist activities seeking 'Taiwan independence.'" Tsai's DPP has traditionally leaned in favour of independence for the island from mainland China. That could anger Beijing, which views Taiwan as an integral part of its territory that is to be taken by force if necessary. Beijing has missiles pointed at the island.
