Activists across Taiwan are pushing for the expulsion of dozens of lawmakers from the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), accusing them of being too close to China. The campaign leverages a rarely used recall mechanism that allows voters to remove legislators midterm, sparking a political storm on the island.
The first 24 recall votes are scheduled for Saturday, with seven more in August, costing an estimated £40 million. More than 30 of Taiwan’s 113 legislators face recall—the highest number in its history—all from the KMT. If just six are expelled, the KMT will lose its parliamentary majority to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
The movement stems from protests against KMT obstruction of bills and constitutional court appointments following the 2024 election, in which the DPP won the presidency but not the legislature. Civic groups, backed by the DPP, argue the targeted legislators undermine national security by visiting Beijing and proposing China-friendly bills.
The KMT denies the accusations, stating it opposes annexation by China but advocates friendlier ties. KMT legislators like Fu Kun-chi, who met with senior Chinese officials, argue they foster mutual understanding. Critics accuse them of selling out Taiwan.
The recall process requires two signature drives and a majority vote in favour exceeding 25% of electorate turnout. Campaigners have recruited thousands to gather signatures and lobby at garbage collection points and transit stations. The battle has led to arrests, assaults, and deep political divisions, with the KMT accusing the campaign of misusing democratic processes to suppress opposition.
