Taiwan is set to hold a mass recall election on Saturday, where nearly one-third of its voters will participate in an unprecedented effort to remove 31 lawmakers from the national legislature. The outcome will determine which party controls the legislature and has significant implications for Taiwan’s domestic politics.
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) launched the recalls after losing its parliamentary majority last year. The recall votes target 24 KMT lawmakers, with another 7 scheduled for later in August. The DPP hopes to break the political gridlock and regain control of the legislature.
China’s role is a key factor in the recalls, as many lawmakers are open to reunification with the mainland, while the DPP is fiercely opposed. The outcome will also determine which party controls Taiwan’s defense and foreign affairs spending.
The DPP needs just 6 more seats to regain its majority, but the success of the recall votes depends on high turnout in the affected districts. If successful, it could allow President William Lai to push through his agenda, although at the cost of deepening partisan divides.
If the recalls fail, it may force the DPP to change tactics and engage more with the opposition. However, experts warn that the recalls could lead to further polarization and create a culture of recall politics in Taiwan.
Source: https://www.gzeromedia.com/news/analysis/total-recall-taiwan-attempts-a-do-over-of-last-years-elections