TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) legislative caucus intensified criticism of Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) Friday (Aug. 1), accusing his Cabinet of monopolizing power and harming national interests. The opposition party Taiwan's third-largest political force submitted a revised motion at the Legislative Yuan (立法院, Taiwan's parliament), highlighting concerns over U.S. tariffs. The caucus alleged Cho's administration has failed to adhere to democratic principles amid mounting economic pressures.
The White House announced Taiwan's tariff rate at 20 percent Friday (Aug. 1), prompting fierce opposition disapproval. Critics condemned Cho for failing to swiftly produce an impact assessment report responding to high tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The TPP claims this violation of the Cabinet's constitutional duty to govern according to law demonstrates administrative incompetence.
The TPP further accused Cho's Cabinet of ineffective disaster relief during domestic typhoons and conducting secretive negotiations amid international challenges. Opposition legislators argued these actions failed to mitigate impacts while compromising citizens' fundamental rights. The caucus stated that Cho Jung-tai has prioritized political struggles over national interests, revealing dangerous arrogance among those wielding power.
The TPP motion called for a resolution condemning Cho for undermining the separation of powers and causing constitutional deadlock. Opposition legislators emphasized that national interests should supersede party interests in Taiwan's democratic governance. The formal censure represents escalating political tensions between the ruling administration and opposition forces in Taiwan's legislature. ◼