Protests against controversial reform bills continue

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Protests continued outside Taiwan's Legislative Yuan on Friday (May 24) as voting resumed on controversial legislative reform bills led by the opposition Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party.

If passed, the bills could allow the legislature to oversee the executive branch, placing the new president, Lai Ching-te, and his government under tighter scrutiny.

Despite the rain, over 50 civil groups, activists, and like-minded individuals gathered with raincoats, umbrellas, and handmade posters, chanting "no discussions, no democracy" and other slogans to voice their concerns. As of 3 p.m., organizers reported that over 20,000 people had shown up to the event.

Lo Yi, head of the Alliance of Referendum for Taiwan and a participant in the Sunflower Movement a decade ago, expressed hope that 100,000 people could gather to defend Taiwan's democracy.

Authorities reported at least 200 police on the scene and another 200 on standby, fearing conflicts could arise. Protests were also held in six other municipalities besides Taipei, demonstrating a strong, united voice among Taiwanese opposing the opposition legislators.