The rivalry between the two DPP presidential hopefuls, Tsai Ing-wen and Su Tseng-chang, has intensified after a supporter of Su accused the Tsai camp of attempting to manipulate poll results last week. And on Saturday, ex-Premier Frank Hsieh said in Tsai's defense that such an accusation amounts to negative campaigning.

The DPP 2012 presidential primary race has heated up.

The recent campaign propaganda from Tsai's camp such as the rumor of "the Blue camp mobilized members to support Su's ticket" and "give sole support to Tsai Ing-wen" has infuriated supporters of Su Jen-chang.

Former legislator of New Tide Faction Chen Jin-teh , who publicly questions former legislator of Hsieh Faction, for the latter's promption of 'sole support of Tsai' campaign, which is believed as an attempt to influence public poll results.

Tsai denied the accusation and has officially brought the case to the court.

But leader of the Hsieh Faction, Frank Hsieh said in the morning that the term 'sole support' has been stigmatized.

Though considered to be more self-disciplined, members of the former New Tide Factions have shown support toward different candidates.

As an effort to keep party unity from coming apart, a decision has been made to allow members to support the candidate of their choice.

Former DPP legislator Lin Cho-hsui stresses it would be negative to the party if the party repeats its overheated competition in the presidential primary this time, just like it did 4 years ago.

So he urges faction leaders within the party to contain the heat of the race and keep the party unity intact.