TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The opposition Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) formally submitted a referendum proposal on Monday (April 27) to introduce caning as punishment for sexual assault, child abuse and large-scale fraud. Legislator Hung Mong-kai (洪孟楷) spearheaded the initiative, which secured endorsements from 52 KMT legislators.
Central Election Commission (CEC, 中選會) Chairman You Ying-lung (游盈隆) clarified the commission's role in handling legislative referendums. Current law mandates the CEC to process constitutional amendments and territorial changes approved by the Legislative Yuan, Taiwan's legislature. For public policy or legal referendums, the CEC must conduct a thorough review as an independent body, You said.
You highlighted the challenges the CEC faces in potentially being reduced to a rubber stamp. He emphasized the importance of managing legislative proposals effectively to maintain the commission's independence. The CEC rejected a Legislative Yuan-proposed referendum to abolish the death penalty but approved extending the life of the Third Nuclear Power Plant (核三廠), demonstrating its independent stance, he said.
You stressed the need for in-depth discussions within the commission before making decisions on referendum proposals. He expressed optimism about Taiwan's commitment to direct democracy and its role in complementing representative politics. You welcomed referendums from the public and political parties, viewing them as a positive development for Taiwan's democratic system. ◼