Taiwan's Political Stage: An Unexpected Solo Performance & Global Implications

Discussions on National Affairs Take a Turn as KMT's Ko Jian-Ming Dominates Proceedings, Drawing Comparisons to Trump's Actions

In a recent discussion on national affairs, initiated by Premier Cho Jung-tai regarding the potential impact of the U.S. imposing a 32% tariff on Taiwan, the proceedings took an unexpected turn. While the meeting was intended to bring together representatives from various political parties, it was Ko Jian-Ming, the DPP's caucus whip, who dominated the dialogue for an extended period.

The gathering included Premier Cho Jung-tai, Deputy Premier Cheng Li-chun, Ko Jian-Ming, KMT caucus whip Fu Kun-chi, and TPP caucus whip Huang Kuo-chang, among others. The discussions revolved around the implications of the U.S. tariffs. The Premier has committed to delivering a special report to the Legislative Yuan, with the exact timing pending coordination by Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu.

However, Chang Chi-kai, the Deputy Whip of the TPP caucus, criticized the situation, stating that Ko Jian-Ming spoke for an excessive 30-40 minutes. Chang described this as "opening the heavens", alluding to the perceived lengthy and monopolizing style of the speech. Chang further added that the discourse included references to former President Chiang Kai-shek, and, surprisingly, comparisons to Donald Trump's actions, suggesting a state of disarray in the presentation.