A day of intense confrontation in Taiwan’s legislature concluded with a public apology following a physical altercation between members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT). The incident left minor injuries and sparked heated debates.
Legislative Turmoil
The conflict erupted on Friday, May 17, during the third reading of a contentious reform bill, leading to disorder in the Legislative Yuan. DPP Legislator Chung Chia-pin and KMT Legislator Chen Ching-huy found themselves at the center of the melee, both ending up on the floor. Speaker Han Kuo-yu, who was nearby, appeared visibly stunned by the abrupt outbreak of violence among the lawmakers.
Chung later apologized, detailing the sequence of events: “As seen by everyone, I jumped onto the podium, then someone grabbed my leg, causing me to fall. Instinctively, I pulled that person down with me. Unfortunately, I hurt my ribs,” Chung explained. “Dr. Wang examined me, and it appears to be a bruise.”
Reactions and Apologies
Chen displayed her scraped knee to reporters and denounced the aggression, underscoring the importance of maintaining decorum despite political disagreements. “He kept apologizing to me, but I firmly believe such violence is unacceptable. Regardless of who you are dealing with, attacking recklessly is something I strongly condemn,” Chen asserted.
Chung expressed remorse upon learning the identity of the other participant in the altercation: “Later, I was informed that the person I clashed with was Legislator Chen Ching-huy. I felt sorry because I did not know who it was. If she felt offended, I apologize; that was not my intention at all.”
