Despite denials from the Nationalist Party that it is influenced by Beijing, many protesters gathered outside the legislature remained unpersuaded.
“I cherish my lifestyle and don’t want to be on the same side as the Chinese communist regime,” said Zhan Fang-yu, 24, a screenwriter from Taipei who supports formal independence for Taiwan. “I think protests like this are not just a fight against the bill, but also an ideological fight.”
Opposition politicians have accused Lai’s party of trying to hide possible corruption and mismanagement and of fomenting unfounded fears among the public about Beijing’s interference. They also noted that the Democratic Progressive Party, when in opposition, supported proposals to give greater control to parliament.
“We once again make a strong appeal to the Democratic Progressive Party government to return power to the people, for the sake of reform of the legislature, so that the sunlight can shine in the legislature,” Fu Kun-chi said , a nationalist party. The lawmaker who led the push for the changes told reporters Monday.