KMT in Turmoil Over Military Budget Proposal; Mayor Lu Urges Harmony

The Kuomintang (KMT) party is currently embroiled in a significant internal conflict concerning a proposed special budget for military procurement. The dispute intensified when Vice Chairman Hsia Li-yan openly voiced his dissatisfaction with the party leadership's apparent support for an NT$800 billion military spending package. Reports suggest Hsia even threatened to expel members who backed this particular version of the bill, signaling a deep rift within the party's ranks over defense policy.

This internal strife has been a subject of considerable public discussion, with various factions within the KMT seemingly advocating for different budget amounts, ranging from NT$800 billion to NT$380 billion plus additional funds. The situation has been characterized as a "royal rumble" within the party, highlighting the lack of consensus on a critical national security issue. The KMT's internal divisions on military spending come at a sensitive time, potentially impacting its political standing and its ability to present a united front.

Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, a prominent figure in the KMT, has attempted to de-escalate the situation by stressing the importance of unity. Responding to questions about the internal conflict, she invoked the proverb, "Harmony in the family leads to prosperity in all endeavors." This sentiment underscores a broader concern within the party that internal disagreements could undermine its overall effectiveness and public image. The mayor's comments suggest a desire to mend fences and refocus the party's energy on more cohesive policy-making, particularly concerning national defense.