On May 28, Taiwan’s parliament passed a package of controversial bills aimed at expanding its power, while thousands of disapproving protesters gathered outside and chanted “defend democracy.” UCA News reported this on May 29.
Supporters of the bill say expanded parliamentary powers are needed to curb corruption, but critics fear the laws could weaken democracy on the island due to the influence of mainland China.
Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, represents the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which advocates for the island’s sovereignty but lost its majority in parliament in January elections.
The bills were proposed by the Kuomintang, Taiwan’s largest opposition party and considered friendlier to official Beijing, and were passed with the support of the Taiwan People’s Party on Tuesday after several sessions.
Among the amendments adopted was one that, for the first time in Taiwan, required the president to address parliament with a “State of the Nation” address and answer questions from lawmakers.
Parliament can now also exercise its “investigative power” by requiring government agencies, military units, private companies or relevant individuals to provide information.
They could be fined up to NT$100,000 ($3,100) if they refuse, delay or withhold information.
“Many of our friends outside the island are disappointed and saddened, and we regret that these bills to expand the powers of Parliament have been passed today.”said DPP deputy Huang Jie.
“It is absurd that even after the third reading, the full articles of the bill are still not published on the parliament website… The process is in a black box from the first to the last moment.””said Juan.
The DPP hung banners around the main chamber of parliament reading “Against the expansion of power, support Taiwan,” as party lawmakers threw paper airplanes at KMT representatives during a long session on May 28.
Another bill passed would criminalize “contempt of parliament,” which could result in an additional fine of NT$200,000.
The DPP said the laws were passed without due consultation, and MP Chiu Yi-ying accused the KMT of “following a plan.” [председателя КНР] Xi Jinping.”
Protesters demonstrated throughout the night with signs that read “No discussion, no democracy.”
“This issue has become a long-term battle and it is not over yet.”said protester Wang Ting-lin, 39, after learning that the bills had been passed.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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