Han Kuo-yu vs S. Dhanabalan

Han Kuo-yu, a relatively unknown KMT politician, was elected Mayor of Kaohsiung, a traditional DPP stronghold. His populist campaign, focused on economic revival and closer ties with China, won him a landslide victory and made him a national political figure.

Han Kuo-yu won the KMT primary and became the party's candidate for the 2020 presidential election. He campaigned on a platform of economic growth and cross-strait engagement. He lost to incumbent Tsai Ing-wen by a significant margin, receiving 38% of the vote.

Han Kuo-yu was recalled as Mayor of Kaohsiung in a recall election, the first such successful recall of a mayor in Taiwanese history. The recall was driven by dissatisfaction with his performance and his decision to run for president while serving as mayor.

Han Kuo-yu was elected Speaker of the Legislative Yuan after the KMT became the largest party in the 2024 legislative elections. This marked a political comeback after his recall, positioning him as a key figure in Taiwan's legislature.

S. Dhanabalan served as Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1980 to 1988. He strengthened ties with ASEAN neighbors and advocated for the Cambodian peace process, enhancing Singapore's regional influence.

S. Dhanabalan served as Minister for National Development, overseeing urban planning and public housing. He implemented policies to maintain Singapore's green spaces and improve the quality of HDB estates.

S. Dhanabalan resigned from the Cabinet citing personal reasons and a desire to step aside for younger leaders. His resignation was seen as a model of selfless leadership and generational renewal in Singapore politics.

S. Dhanabalan chaired the Singapore Tourism Board, leading efforts to promote Singapore as a global tourist destination. He oversaw the development of major attractions and the branding of 'Uniquely Singapore'.