Taiwan's ministers without portfolio hold voting authority in Cabinet decisions, but are not charged with a department, ministry or other responsibilities.

Yang quit his DPP membership in 2010. Last October, he accepted an invitation to campaign in Kaohsiung on behalf of the KMT.

'Little giant'

Party sources said yesterday that Yang is a well-qualified candidate based on his stellar record in local governance.

Educated in National Taiwan University's Department of Civil Engineering, Yang began his career as a technician for the Kaohsiung County government. He then went on to serve as deputy director of Kaohsiung City government's Construction Office (新建工程處), councilor, legislator, and two-term county magistrate.

According to the KMT official, Yang's performance as magistrate reaped commendation from both the public and the media, which dubbed him southern Taiwan's “little giant.”

The monthly Global View (遠見) gave him the top five stars out of five in approval ratings.

The source pointed out that Yang has experience representing the people and maintains a finger on the public's pulse.

Yang Low-key

Approached by local media yesterday afternoon, Yang confirmed only that he and high-level officials had made contact earlier in the day.

Regarding the appointment, Yang said he has no comment for the moment.

Asked if he prefers remaining in Greater Kaohsiung over accepting the position in Taipei, Yang demurred.

“Government service is conducive to practicing a moral life,” he said.

His effort would be unstinting in any office assigned, Yang said.

Hsing Yun Backs Yang

Venerable Master Hsing Yun (星雲大師) of Fo Guang Shan (佛光山) emerged from convalescence yesterday to endorse Yang.

Hsing Yun, who suffered a minor stroke late Dec. 2011, appeared yesterday noon at the Kaohsiung Buddha Memorial Center (佛光山佛陀紀念館). The Buddhist leader told local media that he extends a blessing to Yang's possible appointment.

He said that Yang's character is good, his conduct is upright, and his person is decent.

“He is not that old and has more of wisdom and experience that he should contribute,” continued Hsing Yun.

The Buddhist leader also had positive words for Ma Ying-jeou, who he called clean and just.

“When all is laid bare under the sun, it's very easy to dig out talent,” he said.

So long as good people are unearthed for the Cabinet, Taiwan will improve, he continued.

Hsing Yun is founder of Fo Guang Shan and its NGO, the Buddha Light's International Association (國際佛光會). He is noted for political activism in favor of pan-blue issues, but has made fewer public appearances in recent years due to health complications.