Taiwan legislator challenges colleague to boycott budget review

Senior Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Lai Shih-pao has directly challenged party colleague Fu Kun-chi, questioning his absence from five legislative coordination meetings. Lai stated that while Fu claimed his absence was to oppose the executive branch, he should "have the guts" to boycott the entire budget review process if he is serious about his stance.

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If you really want to oppose, have the guts to not review the budget and refuse to participate in cross-party negotiations.

Lai recalled past KMT tactics when in the minority, including refusing negotiations and engaging in extended, arduous voting sessions that lasted for days. He contrasted this with Fu's current approach, which Lai characterized as mere "skipping work" rather than a principled boycott.

Political commentator Chang Yu-meng commented on the situation, humorously noting that Lai had become "Green Shih-pao" after KMT legislative speaker Han Kuo-yu clashed with Fu. Chang suggested Lai's remarks highlight that the KMT and its allies are "not even qualified to be an opposition party" currently. He pointed out that Lai's warnings about the KMT's direction, particularly its potential alienation of moderate voters and the risks of a "blue-white alliance" in 2028, are coming late.

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This is truly a sight to behold. After Han Kuo-yu clashed with Fu Kun-chi, even Lai Shih-pao has become 'Green Shih-pao.'

Chang further analyzed the internal KMT dynamics, suggesting that figures like Lai might be positioning themselves for future roles, such as vice speaker, while also cautioning against the alliance's path, which he believes is dragging the KMT toward significant local election losses. He sarcastically remarked that it's almost too late for Han and Lai to realize their current political strategy is "at odds with the people."

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The current KMT and its allies are not even qualified to be an opposition party.