TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Eric Chu (朱立倫), chairman of Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨), expressed openness on Friday (April 18) to any measures to safeguard Taiwan's democracy, including requesting a no-confidence vote against the government. His statements came amid escalating tensions between Taiwan's major political parties.
A day earlier, a large group of KMT supporters and party officials gathered outside the Taipei District Prosecutors Office (台北地方檢察署) to protest. The demonstration was triggered by the questioning of Huang Lu Chin-ju (黃呂錦茹), head of the KMT's Taipei City branch, and others over forgery allegations in a petition case that led to a search of party offices.
Protesters displayed signs with slogans such as "Justice is dead," "Fight dictatorship," and "We want rule of law, not party rule." These messages reflected their belief that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) has increasingly used the judicial system against the opposition, stifling dissent and becoming more "authoritarian."
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安), who attended the protest to show support, stated that as a citizen of the Republic of China (ROC, 中華民國), a Taipei resident, and a father of three, he must stand up when justice is no longer impartial and independent. Chiang also advocated for a no-confidence vote in the legislature to prevent the ruling party from further damaging Taiwan.
In response to Chiang's suggestion, Chu emphasized that the strategic goal is to protect Taiwan's democracy and teach authoritarian leaders a lesson. He urged President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to reflect on these issues. Chu also announced a rally on Ketagalan Boulevard (凱達格蘭大道) on April 19 at 3 p.m., calling on supporters to demand President Lai's resignation.
