Over 70K rally in Taipei, push giant ball into legislature

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a historic display of civic engagement, over 70,000 supporters gathered at the Legislative Yuan on Tuesday (May 28) for the "Bluebird Movement," where protestors pushed a giant inflatable ball inscribed with "Citizens Defend Democracy" into the legislature.

This act symbolized the people's steadfast commitment to democracy in Taiwan.

Despite the rain, the enthusiasm of the participants did not wane as they showcased banners proclaiming raging against "Black Box" politics and calling for a healthy democracy.

The protest was a response to the Legislative Yuan's third reading of the Law Governing the Legislative Yuan`s Power, which critics argue threatens Taiwan's democratic fabric by refusing to discuss the bill. In a parallel demonstration, over 10,000 individuals participated in Kaohsiung, highlighting the nationwide concern over the legislation.

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) amplified the voices of the protesters by sharing a video of their sentiments, indicating local government attention to the movement.

The general convener of the event called on legislators to reconsider the bill before its formal implementation to safeguard democratic processes. This protest reflects widespread fears that the congressional reform bill could lead to an undue concentration of power, undermining democratic procedures.

Tuesday's Bluebird Movement event marks a significant moment in Taiwan's civic activism, with citizens and leaders alike demanding a reevaluation of legislative actions to protect the island's democratic values.