Premier Su Clings to Power, Disrupting Chairman Lai's Reform Schedule
United Daily News, January 14, 2023
The Legislative Yuan did not adjourn on January 13 as planned by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), disrupting the cabinet reshuffle schedule, and hence giving Premier Su Tseng-chang the very last chance to keep his premiership. As Vice President William Lai is set to become DPP chairman on January 15, Premier Su’s refusal to relinquish power has undoubtedly undermined the reform project initiated by Lai.
On January 12, the "five-step reshuffle process" scheme was mapped out by the government, the Legislative Yuan, and the DPP at the president’s residence. First, the meeting was to finalize the general picture of the reshuffle. Second, the Legislative Yuan was to approve the general budget and adjourn, and then Premier Su would announce the resignation of his cabinet on the same day. Third, on January 14, President Tsai Ing-wen was to meet with former Vice President Chen Chien-jen, who is expected to succeed Premier Su, then to formally announce Chen as the new premier. Fourth, on January 15, Lai was set to be elected the DPP Chairman. Finally, on January 16, the next workday, the cabinet reshuffle was to be announced, and so would be Lai’s party cabinet.
The whole process was laid out in a rhythm hoping that after five days, the new executive team and the DPP’s Central Committee would be in place almost simultaneously, and henceforth the road towards “rebirth” starts.
The Legislative Yuan did not adjourn as expected, unfortunately, breaking the tacit understanding among the government, Legislative Yuan, and the DPP. Not only did the premier not offer his resignation, but he also made a big move to approve the appointment of a number of high-ranking police personnel and even, a new Metro line. Premier Su's recent remarks, such as praising the party comrades for supporting his premiership, or criticizing those for not doing it, have been interpreted that he is still trying to save the day.
President Tsai has reiterated that she would wait until the end of the Legislative Yuan session before announcing a cabinet reshuffle. The cul-de-sac of the general budget deliberation has accidentally become an "elixir of life" for Su's premiership, allowing Su to imagine that he is still attached to his power. The cabinet reshuffle is unstoppable, and the former Vice President Chen will be the successor to Premier Su is apparent.
On January 13, Premier Su missed his scheduled resignation. The same day also marks the four-year milestone of his tenure. The new scenario seems to suggest that he has gained a few more days to fight for the chance to stay in office. While the cabinet reshuffle drags on, the public finds the government’s determination to reform non-existent but a pure struggle for power and profit to the last minute.
Note: The current session of the Legislative Yuan has been postponed to January 19.