Controversial bills moved into focus this week as Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party issued a public warning. The party cautioned that opposition lawmakers may attempt last-minute votes before the legislative term ends. The warning came ahead of the Legislative Yuan’s final two plenary sessions this week.
The Chinese Nationalist Party and the Taiwan People’s Party currently hold a combined majority in parliament. The DPP caucus said the opposition could place at least four disputed proposals on Friday’s agenda. These include amendments affecting party assets, offshore development, broadcasting regulation, and legislative procedures.
DPP leaders argued the proposed measures undermine social fairness and primarily protect specific individuals and interest groups. The caucus said it would work to block Controversial bills by increasing public awareness. Lawmakers warned that rushed votes could bypass proper democratic scrutiny.
Caucus chief executive Chung Chia-pin cited voting patterns observed during the past two legislative years. He said bills supported by a majority usually pass unless lawmakers fear public backlash. Chung stressed that elections remain the ultimate safeguard within Taiwan’s democratic system.
Local elections scheduled for later this year could influence how lawmakers approach sensitive legislation. Chung said opposition candidates would face scrutiny from voters over their support for controversial proposals. He added that public opinion could shape final legislative outcomes.
The DPP highlighted amendments involving party assets linked to organizations previously associated with the KMT. These include the National Women’s League and the China Youth Corps. Both groups were previously cited in rulings involving improperly obtained political assets.
Lawmakers also criticized proposed changes to the Satellite Broadcasting Act, often labeled the “CTi clause.” They warned the amendment could increase Taiwan’s exposure to foreign influence and cognitive warfare risks. Another offshore development proposal allegedly facilitates origin laundering for Chinese goods.
The DPP further opposed amendments decriminalizing misuse of legislative assistant expense funds. Lawmakers said the provision appeared designed to ease legal pressure on a specific KMT legislator. They described this as a clear example of Controversial bills serving narrow interests.
KMT caucus secretary-general Lo Chih-chiang said completed draft bills remain eligible for final deliberation. He added that cross-party consultations could allow passage of pending budget measures. Lo urged lawmakers to consider public hardship during the final session.
Political analysts say end-of-term sessions often intensify confrontation as parties rush legislative priorities. Rushed lawmaking can deepen polarization and complicate future policy implementation. Attention now centers on Friday’s session and whether compromise or conflict prevails.
