Taiwan Budget Stalemate: Speaker Han Kuo-yu Frustrated as KMT Whip Fu Kun-chi Skips Talks

Taiwan's Legislative Yuan is experiencing significant delays in approving the central government's budget for the fiscal year 2025. The budget, which was slated for completion by the end of the previous year, remains stalled due to ongoing negotiations between the ruling party and opposition caucuses. Specifically, the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) caucuses have been blocking its passage. Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu has reportedly voiced his impatience with the protracted process. Adding to the gridlock, KMT legislative caucus whip Fu Kun-chi was notably absent from crucial coordination meetings aimed at resolving the impasse. His absence occurred while the legislature was engaged in cross-party consultations on the budget, drawing criticism from some quarters.