In response to the ruling party’s growing arrogance, administrative incompetence, deepening societal divisions, and misuse of judicial power to silence dissent, Taiwan can no longer remain under the dominance of the increasingly radicalized Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). In light of these pressing concerns, the “Bring Democracy Back to Taiwan – Opposition Leaders Summit” was convened, focusing on two critical issues: the impact of U.S. high tariffs on Taiwan and the defense of judicial integrity and democratic justice.

 

Co-led by Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chairman Huang Kuo-chang and Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu, the summit transcended partisan lines, fostering constructive dialogue and delivering substantive policy solutions in response to public expectations. Chairman Huang underscored that “We must act with courage to find a path toward the light.”

 

Safeguarding Negotiation Bottom line, Advancing Taiwan-U.S. FTA, and Establishing a Civil, Cross-Sectoral Platform

At this critical juncture, as Taiwan faces the impact of Trump's tariff policies, the Lai administration appears ill-prepared. Chairman Huang pointed out that with the DPP demonstrating both apathy and incompetence in addressing today’s economic challenges, the opposition has a duty to step forward.

 

Chairman Huang underscored the need to safeguard Taiwan’s core interests in trade negotiations. He asserted that the government must not accept terms inferior to those granted to key competitors such as Japan and South Korea, warning that doing so could lead to catastrophic consequences for Taiwan’s industries. He further emphasized that Taiwan must proactively pursue a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States—one that goes beyond symbolic gestures and unilateral concessions.

 

Chairman Huang also proposed a concrete plan, emphasizing that the TPP will collaborate with the KMT to establish a civil, cross-sectoral platform, which would incorporate local government leaders, industry representatives, and labor voices to compensate for the administration’s failure to deliver a credible impact assessment. This alternative, “people’s version” of the report would be updated biannually and developed with input from experienced professionals—such as former National Taiwan University President Kuan Chung-ming—to ensure both rationality and credibility.

 

Legislative Reforms: Bring Democracy and the Rule of Law Back to the People of Taiwan

The ruling party has not only demonstrated a lack of responsibility but has also consistently refused to engage in meaningful dialogue with the opposition. Instead, it has weaponized the judiciary as a tool for political persecution. Over the past eight months, the TPP has faced unrelenting, coordinated attacks from the government, prosecutors, and media. Nevertheless, we have never wavered, continuing to stand on the front lines in our resistance against the green authoritarianism. As Chairman Huang Kuo-chang emphasized, “Our defense of judicial justice is not for any one individual—it is for the entire people of Taiwan.”

 

Under the DPP’s governance, abuses of power have become alarmingly commonplace—from the Ker Chien-ming lobbying scandal to Minister of Justice Chiu Tai-shan’s shielding of political elites. Those in power have brazenly interfered with the judiciary without bearing any legal consequences—behavior that is both egregious and unacceptable.

 

In response, the TPP legislative caucus is advancing two critical reform measures: first, an amendment to enable live broadcasting of court proceedings; second, the establishment of a new criminal offense for obstruction of justice. These reforms aim to send an unequivocal message to the ruling party: judicial interference will be met with legal accountability and tangible consequences.

While the DPP continues to renege on its promises of judicial reform, the opposition will take the lead in enacting meaningful, codified change—bringing democracy and the rule of law back to the people of Taiwan. The TPP will also maintain close cooperation with the KMT in the Legislative Yuan to push these initiatives forward during the current session. We extend our sincere appreciation to Chairman Eric Chu for his immediate and supportive response.

 

Lai Ching-te is the root of chaos — A No-confidence Vote Won’t Save Taiwan

Those who lost the election must not be allowed to overturn the outcome through institutional manipulation and trample on the democracy cherished by the people of Taiwan,” Huang Kuo-chang pointed out, arguing that the public is well aware: a no-confidence motion will not save Taiwan, nor will it resolve the authoritarian tendencies that truly threaten our democracy. The real problem lies not with Premier Cho Jung-tai, whom President Lai Ching-te treats as a disposable pawn, but with President Lai himself—his arrogance and centralization of power are the root causes.

 

More importantly, this battle to defend democracy cannot be fought by political parties alone. It must include all members of civil society who are willing to stand up and take action to safeguard the rule of law in Taiwan. Chairman Huang will represent the TPP and partake in the April 26 civic movement. He also extends a sincere invitation to all citizens who care about Taiwan’s future and are committed to upholding democracy and justice. This rally is not a stage for any one political party—it is a stage for the people.

 

The Summit as a Starting Point: Finding Light in a Time of Darkness

In conclusion, Chairman Huang emphasized that today’s meeting is not just a talking point, but the beginning of concrete action. Action, he said, is embedded in the DNA of the Taiwan People’s Party. At this critical moment, political calculations and personal interests must be set aside. He stressed that while the TPP and the KMT are two parties with distinct political cultures and ideologies, it is precisely these differences that make “seeking common ground while respecting differences” even more essential. All TPP representatives in attendance wore both the national flag of the Republic of China and the party’s KP badge, with the national flag placed above the badge—symbolizing that the core of all the actions is to prioritize national interest above all else.

 

Chairman Huang also quoted former TPP Chairman Ko Wen-je, who once said in court: “This land is still worth fighting for—let us work together for it.” Though communication with former Chairman Ko is currently not possible, Huang expressed his firm belief that Ko’s thoughts remain with the future of Taiwan and its people.

 

Taking this moment to rally the party, Huang called on all TPP members and public office holders to step forward with even greater resolve—to take responsibility and drive meaningful change. For the people of Taiwan, the Taiwan People’s Party has never hesitated when it’s time to act. Only through courageous and determined action can we find light in these dark times and build a new future filled with hope.