'Pro-China' politicians survive Taiwan vote to kick them out

Tessa Wong

Early results of an unprecedented vote in Taiwan aimed at ousting politicians accused of being too close to China indicate that all have retained their seats.

Thousands of Taiwanese went to the polls on Saturday in what has been termed as the "dabamian", or Great Recall vote, initiated by a civic movement.

The vote result was closely watched as it could have altered the balance of power in Taiwan, which has seen months of political deadlock between the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government and the legislature dominated by the opposition Kuomintang and its allies.

But the early result shows the opposition keeps its majority. A small number of votes are still being counted.

On Saturday, citizens in 24 districts – all held by the Kuomintang - voted on a simple yes or no question: whether they agreed to boot out their legislator.

While Taiwan held recall votes in the past, it had never seen so many within such a short period of time.

Early results show that a majority of voters in every district voted no, which means none of the lawmakers have to vacate their seats.

The opposition maintains its slim majority - for now. Another round of recall voting will be held in August for seven other seats.

Analysts have said that if the Great Recall fails, it would intensify political polarisation in Taiwan, and embolden politicians to do what they want despite opposition from a significant segment of the population.

The Great Recall has deeply divided Taiwanese society, which has seen large rallies and fierce debate. Both pro-recall and anti-recall activists claimed to be fighting for Taiwan's democracy.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8185e19l4o