KMT urges cabinet to resign after DPP fails in recall bids

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) secured a decisive political victory July 26 as all 24 of its legislators survived recall attempts by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨). The failed recalls mean the DPP cannot regain control of the Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, where opposition parties hold a majority.

Party Chairman Eric Chu (朱立倫) embraced tearful legislators in scenes of relief and triumph. The survival of KMT legislators has intensified calls for cabinet reshuffles and prompted demands for presidential accountability.

The KMT attributed their legislators' survival to voter wisdom and called for President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to issue a public apology. In Taipei, Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) successfully defended five legislative seats, demonstrating the responsibility and unity required to face democratic challenges.

Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) Chairman Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) demanded Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) resign and initiate comprehensive cabinet changes. Huang accused President Lai of abusing administrative resources to support the recall effort, urging an immediate public apology.

Former DPP legislator Lee Wen-chung (李文忠) noted the persistent political deadlock, suggesting coalition government formation might be inevitable. Lee emphasized the ruling party should focus on anti-communism, protecting Taiwan and democratic checks and balances, as mainstream public opinion.

President Lai responded that the outcome does not signify victory or defeat for any side. He affirmed that both recall and anti-recall efforts are legitimate constitutional rights, calling the event a demonstration of Taiwan's precious democracy.

The successful opposition defense dealt a significant blow to the DPP. The recall reflected widespread dissatisfaction with DPP governance and highlighted internal divisions that could pose greater challenges in the 2026 local elections.

Since the 2024 election, President Lai has faced increasing challenges as opposition parties control parliament. Dynamics include continued cabinet vetoes of congressional bills and central-local government conflicts over budget allocation issues.

The recall boosted the profiles of Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an. Lu will likely become the next KMT chairman and a leading 2028 presidential candidate, while Chiang, grandson of former President Chiang Ching-kuo (蔣經國), emerges as another potential presidential contender.

Neither the Executive Yuan (行政院) nor the Office of the President (總統府) has addressed potential resignations or cabinet reorganization as of press time. Cabinet members appearing in the Legislative Yuan declined to comment, and the Executive Yuan canceled tomorrow's scheduled meeting.