TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A public apology capped a tumultuous day in Taiwan's legislature after a scuffle between lawmakers from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) resulted in minor injuries and a heated exchange.
Legislative Scuffle
The altercation occurred on Friday (May 17) during the third reading of a controversial reform bill, sparking chaos in the Legislative Yuan. DPP Legislator Chung Chia-pin and KMT Legislator Chen Ching-huy were at the center of the fray, which ended with both on the ground. Speaker Han Kuo-yu, seated nearby, appeared visibly shocked by the sudden violence among the lawmakers.
Chung later issued an apology, explaining his actions during the incident: "As everyone saw, I jumped onto the podium, and then someone grabbed my leg, causing me to fall. Naturally, I pulled that person down with me. However, I've injured my ribs," Chung stated. "Dr. Wang has checked on me, and it seems to be a bruise."
Reactions and Apologies
Chen showed reporters her scraped knee and condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for decorum regardless of political differences. "He kept apologizing to me, but I truly think this type of violence is unacceptable. It does not matter who you're dealing with, attacking blindly is what I strongly condemn," Chen remarked.
Chung expressed regret upon realizing the identity of the other involved party: "Later, I was told that the person I clashed with was legislator Chen Ching-huy. I felt sorry because I didn't know who it was. If she felt offended, I apologize; that was not my intention at all."
The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the conduct of Taiwan's lawmakers, with public calls for increased civility and respect in the legislative process.