TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) faces deepening internal discord as legislator Chiu Yi-ying (邱議瑩) publicly aired grievances Tuesday (Sept. 9) about leadership conflicts within the party. Chiu described a troubling disconnect between caucus leader Ker Chien-ming's (柯建銘) directives and broader party discussions, characterizing the past year as "very torturous" for party members. She directly attributed the escalating tensions to Ker's alleged inability to accept differing opinions from fellow legislators.
Chiu sharply criticized the party's mishandling of the controversial "Kai Kai" bill, highlighting what she characterized as contradictory and damaging voting behavior. She questioned the strategic logic behind the DPP's decision to oppose the legislation during its second reading while abstaining from the crucial third reading vote. Chiu argued that adopting a more consistent parliamentary approach could have significantly minimized political damage to the party's reputation.
Chiu referenced the contentious debate over distributing NT$10,000 (around US$330) cash payments to further illustrate the party's internal divisions. While DPP leadership dismissed the proposal as unconstitutional, Chiu contended the party should have prioritized low-income household needs over legal technicalities. She emphasized that NT$10,000 (around US$330) might appear insignificant to affluent politicians but could provide substantial relief to struggling rural and low-income families across Taiwan.
The new legislative session has commenced with the DPP's operational future hanging in uncertainty, particularly given that Ker remains the sole surviving party cadre in leadership positions. Chiu acknowledged the significant challenges facing the party in finding optimal solutions to its internal strife while suggesting that leadership dynamics may undergo substantial evolution. The ongoing tensions threaten to undermine the ruling party's effectiveness in Taiwan's legislature, Taiwan's parliament. ◼