TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwanese Association of America (全美台灣同鄉會) issued a statement on Wednesday (May 22), condemning the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) for forcefully advancing controversial bills in the Legislative Yuan.
The association criticized these actions as detrimental to Taiwan's democratic achievements, highlighting a growing concern over the potential erosion of constitutional governance and the balance of power.
Misuse of International Support
President Chen Kuei-ling (陳桂鈴) of the Taiwanese Association of America accused the KMT of misinterpreting a congratulatory message from U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, damaging the long-standing trust and friendship between Taiwan and the United States. Chen expressed gratitude for Smith's 43 years of support for Taiwan, including sponsoring and co-signing bills in support of Taiwan and opposing threats from the Chinese Communist Party.
Call for Democratic Integrity
The association expressed its apprehension about the lack of thorough discussion before the KMT and TPP jointly pushed the controversial bills. According to the association, this move could lead to a constitutional crisis and a disruption of the balance of powers.
Having promoted the welfare of Taiwanese and Americans and deepened exchanges for 54 years, the Taiwanese Association of America looks forward to continuing collaboration with like-minded partners.
The association also thanked the public, especially young students, for protesting outside the Legislative Yuan and urged the KMT and TPP to listen to public opinion and avoid undermining democratic processes.