TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Wednesday (Jan. 15) declared that no one can interfere with or influence judicial decisions in Taiwan. He emphasized that dissatisfaction with verdicts should not undermine the judiciary's professionalism or question its independence. Lai's comments come amid protests by the Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) against the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨), accusing the ruling party of authoritarian rule and ignoring judicial justice.
The TPP held a rally on Jan. 11 to protest the detention of former chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) over the Core Pacific Corruption Scandal (京華城弊案). During a DPP committee meeting, spokesperson Han Ying (韓瑩) reiterated Lai's remarks, highlighting the party's origins during martial law and its commitment to democratic reform and judicial independence.
Lai pointed out that Taiwan's society and the DPP have worked decades to promote judicial independence, moving past a dictatorship era. He stressed that Taiwan has successfully implemented judicial independence, although improvements are still needed. Lai urged party members to remain vigilant and uphold integrity to protect Taiwan's democracy and freedom.
Lai also reminded that the 2024 presidential election concluded a year ago, with the Taiwanese people choosing the DPP to continue leading the nation. He reaffirmed the commitment to the promises made to the citizens, ensuring Taiwan's steady progress.
