TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's parliament erupted into political theater Friday (March 28) as Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) legislators seized control of the legislative chamber in a dramatic maneuver to block confirmation of minutes related to two highly contentious referendum proposals. The occupation halted proceedings that would have advanced controversial initiatives opposing the abolition of capital punishment and opposing the ruling party's authority to potentially institute martial law, reflecting the deepening partisan divide in Taiwan's political landscape.
The protesting legislators barricaded entrances to the main chamber while prominently displaying protest signs that demanded withdrawal of what they termed an "illegal referendum" and proclaimed the day's legislative proceedings "invalid." DPP caucus whip Ker Chien-ming (柯建銘), orchestrating the parliamentary blockade, justified the extraordinary action as necessary defensive tactics against opposition Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) legislators, whom he accused of attempting to conduct parliamentary business through clandestine sessions beyond public scrutiny.
Tension escalated as Ker issued a public challenge to his counterpart, declaring: "I am waiting for KMT caucus whip Fu Kun-chi (傅崐萁) to use the strongest violence against us, and if he dares to touch a hair on my head, 23 million people will be watching." The confrontational statement highlighted the theatrical nature of Taiwan's legislative conflicts, where physical confrontations have occasionally marred proceedings. Fu responded with restraint, calling for the DPP members to abandon their occupation of the speaker's podium to prevent complete parliamentary paralysis.
The KMT whip emphasized the importance of maintaining parliamentary decorum and functionality, stating, "The Legislative Yuan should function properly, especially with crucial bills pending, including national security law amendments and the interpellation of Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰)." Fu's appeal for cooperation took on added urgency as he reminded colleagues that the legislative session was scheduled to continue until midnight, with significant agenda items awaiting consideration that would now face potential delays due to the standoff.
