TAICHUNG (TVBS News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) announced Wednesday (April 23) her intention to participate in an upcoming protest against what opposition leaders describe as Taiwan's deteriorating economic conditions. The demonstration, organized by the Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨), Taiwan's main opposition party, will take place April 26 in the capital city.
During a business forum in neighboring Miaoli County, Mayor Lu emphasized the severity of Taiwan's economic challenges, suggesting they might exceed the impact of the pandemic. She highlighted the concerns of thousands of manufacturers across central Taiwan's 30-plus industrial zones. "Lighten the focus on politics and prioritize the economy and livelihood of the people," Lu urged the central government.
The protest, organized by KMT Chairman Eric Chu (朱立倫), will take place on Ketagalan Boulevard (凱道), the ceremonial avenue leading to Taiwan's Presidential Office. Chu has sharply criticized the economic policies of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨), Taiwan's governing party. Mayor Lu emphasized the demonstration's purpose is to advocate for citizens facing rising prices and support manufacturers struggling in the current economic climate.
The planned protest comes amid growing political tensions, including Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's (蔣萬安) recent call for a no-confidence vote against the government. While media reports suggested Mayor Lu privately opposed this more aggressive approach, sources close to the mayor indicate her position remains flexible, advocating for strategic responses tailored to evolving political circumstances. ★
