Taiwan Opposition May Reduce Referendum Proposals; DPP Open to Talks

The Kuomintang (KMT) has indicated that the number of referendums proposed for the upcoming election may be reduced from the initial six. KMT legislator Lo Chih-chiang stated that internal discussions within the party are ongoing, and the final number of referendums will be based on consensus. He suggested that the six proposals were initially put forth for discussion and could be scaled back.

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The number of cases may decrease after detailed discussions.

In response, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) caucus secretary-general Chuang Jui-hsiung expressed willingness to engage in dialogue and make adjustments. He noted that the opposition parties' openness to communication and modification would be a positive development. Chuang also emphasized that while parties must respect the public's right to referendum, issues that can be resolved by the legislature should not be deferred to the people. He criticized the opposition for potentially using referendums as a tool to impact the election, rather than as a genuine expression of popular sovereignty.

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If the opposition is willing to communicate or adjust, it is naturally a positive development.

The discussion arises as Taiwan prepares for referendums to be held concurrently with the year-end elections. The KMT and other opposition parties have proposed six referendums, including those on euthanasia and corporal punishment, which critics fear could overwhelm election administration. The DPP has stressed its respect for the referendum system but also cautioned against its misuse for political maneuvering, arguing that the legislature has a responsibility to address policy matters.

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Parties must respect referendums, as this is an expression of popular sovereignty. However, matters that should be decided by the legislature should not be put to the people.