DPP criticizes KMT’s stance on presidential report delivery

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Tensions have risen between the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) over the invitation of President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to deliver a national policy report at the Legislative Yuan. DPP caucus whip Ker Chien-ming (柯建銘) criticized KMT caucus whip Fu Kun-chi (傅崐萁) on Wednesday (May 29) for his unclear stance and illogical reasoning regarding the president's report.

Legislative Amendments and Political Reactions

The Legislative Yuan passed amendments to the Law Governing the Legislative Yuan's Power on May 28, mandating the president to submit a national policy report by Feb. 1 each year and to deliver it in person by March 1. Additionally, new presidents are required to submit this report within two weeks of taking office and present it within a month. Following the president's report, legislators can ask for clarifications either orally or in writing, with the president expected to respond promptly or within seven days for written queries.

Upcoming Legislative Session

The Legislative Yuan is set to invite the newly appointed Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and various department heads for a policy report and questioning session on May 31. This comes amid the controversy stirred by Fu's invitation to President Lai, which Ker has labeled as an act of evasion and confusion. Fu, on the other hand, has expressed his intention to respect President Lai's preferred method of response, whether it involves immediate answers or not.

This legislative update and the ensuing political debate highlight the ongoing dynamics and challenges within Taiwan's political landscape, as parties navigate the complexities of governance and accountability.