Stalemate in justice system urged to be lifted by various groups
In a heated political climate, speakers are urging the opposition to put an end to their ongoing wrangling and stop using nominees as pawns in their confrontation against the ruling party. The standoff has paralysed the Constitutional Court, a crucial institution designed to safeguard the democratic values of Taiwan.
The opposition parties have been attempting to hinder the Court's functioning by increasing the required number of judges from 5 to more than two-thirds in January 2021. Since then, they have consistently rejected nominations to fill the vacant seats.
This impasse has deprived the public of the right to file for constitutional interpretations, a fundamental right in a democratic society. The director of Covenants Watch, Huang Yi-pi, has emphasised the need for the Constitutional Court to function independently and without political interference.
The lack of a functioning Constitutional Court could potentially lead to abuse of powers by the Legislative Yuan and the Executive Yuan. Lin Shih-fang, a board member of women's rights group the Awakening Foundation, has urged the justices to assess the amendment and determine its unconstitutional aspects to end the standoff.
KMT caucus secretary-general Lo Chih-chiang has called on President Lai to work with the opposition to negotiate for new nominees for the court to function. DPP Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung supports these calls, stating that democracy is on the path to destruction when the court remains silent.
TPP legislative caucus director Chen Chao-tzu suggests that Lai should confer with the opposition on the new nominees and that it is possible to reach an agreement to confirm two new nominees for the Constitutional Court to start its work.
Huang also urges Lai to amend the nomination process to have more transparency and open it up for more participation by civil society groups. This would ensure that the nomination process is fair and free from political manipulation.
As the political stalemate continues, the future of Taiwan's democratic institutions hangs in the balance. It is crucial that all parties involved prioritise the functioning of the Constitutional Court to uphold the rule of law and protect the democratic values that Taiwan holds dear.
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