President Lai Ching-te Discusses Recall Movement: A Shift Toward Direct Democracy

In an interview with the 'Mindy's Election Reading' online channel, President Lai Ching-te addressed the recent surge in recall movements initiated by civic groups. He emphasized that civic power is invaluable, describing these actions as rights granted by the constitution that include not only elections but also recall, initiative, and referendum.
President Lai stated that this civic movement represents a significant step forward for Taiwan's democratic political landscape, moving from indirect democracy to a focus on direct civic rights. He noted, 'When recall becomes widely accepted, initiatives and referendums will also become commonplace and a manifestation of direct civic rights.'
Regarding the opposition's call to halt large-scale recalls, Lai emphasized that this is a grassroots civic movement that cannot be controlled or stopped by anyone, and it is essential to respect citizens' rights without labeling or misrepresenting it as a campaign orchestrated by the ruling party.
When asked if the opposition's move to recall the president also constitutes a civic right, Lai replied that this falls within the constitutional powers of the legislative members, and as president, he respects that. On the political deadlock, Lai acknowledged public confusion over the legislative chaos, explaining that legislative amendments by the opposition in the first session have infringed upon presidential powers and the rights of the executive branch as ruled by the constitutional court.