Clashes Erupt in Taiwan Over Controversial Bills

Tensions escalated in Taiwan's parliament as lawmakers clashed over controversial bills proposed by the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, which critics argue threaten Taiwan's democratic system. Members of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) occupied the speaker's chair and barricaded themselves inside the building to prevent votes on three legal amendments, including changes that would make it harder for voters to recall elected officials. The situation turned chaotic as KMT and Taiwan People's Party legislators attempted to take control, resulting in physical confrontations and some injuries among lawmakers. Protests erupted outside the parliament, with thousands chanting against the proposed amendments, reflecting widespread public concern over potential democratic erosion. The DPP warned that the passage of these bills would cause irreversible damage to Taiwan's civil society. As debates continued late into the night, the political impasse raises significant questions about Taiwan's governance and democratic integrity.