Taiwan’s first wave of major recall results fell short of expectations, with President of the Republic of China and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Chairman, Lai Ching-te, expressing today (July 30) that he takes responsibility for all criticisms and extends deep apologies to all participating civic groups and supporters. Facing the upcoming recall vote on August 23, the DPP will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the citizens and complete the final stretch together.
President Lai Ching-te of the Republic of China stated in a Facebook post today that last Saturday, the recall vote initiated by the Taiwanese people under the constitution, as well as the decision made by the people, should be respected and accepted by all. The expressed public opinion, whether it is the insistence on the constitutional system, concerns about national security and democratic order, or hopes for more dialogue and less confrontation in the functioning of the country, every sentiment of the people is the responsibility of those in power.
He expressed gratitude to civic groups and supporters from all over, who braved the scorching heat and rain, step by step, completed the signing process. Each handwritten petition, each leaflet distributed, is not just the weight of a piece of paper, but the power of the people’s desire to protect the country.
“From dawn to dusk, everyone stood firm in the streets, bravely speaking out their beliefs, persevering until the final moment. Along this path, many comrades and partners of the DPP walked together. I want to thank everyone for their efforts and dedication; this is a civic lesson in practicing democracy, as well as a profound democratic dialogue,” said Lai Ching-te.
Lai Ching-te stated that he knows many people feel disappointed and regretful about the results of the recall vote. In areas where the DPP fell short, “I take all criticisms and deeply apologize to all participating civic groups and supporters.” Facing the future, turning disappointment into the courage to uphold beliefs, and turning regret into the determination to reform and start anew.
He said that because everyone stood up for Taiwan together, more citizens are beginning to care about and participate in public affairs. Your actions make Taiwan’s democracy more vibrant and remind all politicians: it is fundamental in democratic politics to constantly respect the will of the people and accept their supervision.
Facing the upcoming recall vote on August 23, Lai Ching-te stated that the DPP will continue to stand side by side with every citizen working hard in the recall districts. He requested the central party headquarters and local party officials to fully support civic groups, accompanying everyone to persist until the last moment, completing the final stretch together.
Lai Ching-te mentioned that DPP Secretary-General Lin Yu-chang has already submitted his resignation, which he has accepted, thanking Lin Yu-chang for his efforts and contributions to party affairs over the past year. At this critical moment, he asked Deputy Secretary-General Ho Po-wen to act as interim Secretary-General. He also requested Po-wen to lead the party colleagues in effectively completing the two tasks entrusted to him: assisting people in disaster areas to recover and accompanying citizens in the recall districts to move forward.
Lai Ching-te said he wants to address all friends who support the DPP and democratic beliefs: Taiwan is facing multiple internal and external challenges, be it the impact of extreme weather, shifts in international economics and trade, or the oppression from authoritarian regimes, we will not back down. The governing team will stand firm and respond calmly, the mission is to keep Taiwan moving forward steadfastly and prevent democracy from being knocked down.
He said, because everyone always believes that “Taiwan will forever be our gentle homeland,” this piece of land, with you, me, and everyone, can continue to move forward together toward a more hopeful future.