In DPP primary Hsien is elected with a surprising 44.6 per cent support against 33 per cent for his rival, the current prime minister and President Chen’s heir apparent. If he wins next year, Hsieh wants to improve relations with Beijing and improve the economy.

Taipei (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Former Taiwanese premier Frank Hsieh Chang-ting has officially become the Democratic Progressive Party's candidate in next year's presidential election after a surprise win in yesterday's party primary.

Mr Hsieh was a clear winner in yesterday's polls, securing 44.66 per cent of the vote. His major rival, Premier Su Tseng-chang, won only 33.4 per cent.

For some analysts, Hsieh’s unexpected victory is the result of his adversary’s smear campaign. A top leader of the party’s New Tide faction, Mr Su tried unsuccessfully to raise doubts about the winner’s and other candidates’ character.

After the vote count, Mr Hsieh called for unity in the party and reiterated his campaign’s main themes, namely better relations with the mainland and jumpstarting Taiwan’s economy.

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