💔 Alienation of Legislative Function: When the Opposition Mistook “Supervision” for “Inherent Duty to Obstruct”
My rationality, for a moment, broke.
Last night, during a TV debate hosted by Mr. Jaw Shaw-kong, a shocking exchange occurred. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Hsu Tien-Tsai was asked by a guest why a bill had been blocked from review for nearly a year. His response was:
“Our inherent duty as the opposition party is to obstruct.”
This statement, like a flash of lightning, instantly shattered many people”s understanding and expectations of what modern parliamentary politics should entail.
🚨 Legislator Hsu, You Are Wrong!
I want to tell Legislator Hsu Tien-Tsai and all politicians who hold this view:
You are wrong!
“The inherent duty of the opposition party is to supervise! And it is for the rights and welfare of all citizens!”
It has never been, and should never be, endless obstruction!
“Supervision” means carefully examining government administration, bill content, and budget allocations to identify malpractices or injustices, and proposing better alternatives or amendments. Its ultimate goal is to improve the quality of national governance.
While “obstruction” is indeed part of the supervisory mechanism, serving as a last resort against the ruling party”s arbitrary actions, elevating “obstruction” to an “inherent duty” or even a “norm” for a political party signifies a severe alienation of legislative function. It ceases to be an institution that solves problems and promotes progress for the nation, and instead becomes a battleground for partisan political infighting, causing national operations to stagnate.
Legislator Hsu”s slip of the tongue transcended a mere verbal error. It revealed the subconscious of certain opposition politicians: in their eyes, blocking everything the ruling party does is more important than genuinely advancing national affairs.
“Your inner thoughts slipped out.”
The absurdity of this debate lies in showing us the misplacement and arrogance of certain legislators regarding their responsibilities. When the entire nation entrusts them with the heavy responsibility of national operation, they turn it into a tool for partisan squabbles.
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The above is my true feeling and commentary on this statement.