China-Leaning Politician Wins to Lead Taiwan Opposition KMT

Voting at a polling station in Taipei, Oct. 18.

Photographer: Chiang Ying-ying/AP

A former Taiwan lawmaker who has advocated closer ties to China won the contest to become the leader of the island’s biggest opposition party.

Cheng Li-wun won 50.2% of votes, according to a statement by the Kuomintang party, beating five other candidates. She is the third woman to lead the party. Current chairman Eric Chu didn’t join the contest.