Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2017-09-29

The mayor of Taichung, Lin Chia-lung, has said the most important thing for Taiwan’s system of government is for different branches to have distinct and corresponding powers. Lin was speaking to Radio Taiwan International on Friday.

President Tsai Ing-wen has recently raised the question of constitutional reform. The current government system is often referred to as a “dual leadership structure.” This has led to a blurring of responsibilities between the president as head of state and the premier as head of the government, appointed by the president. A lawmaker from the president’s party has tabled a proposal for a change to a presidential system, while others have suggested a cabinet system.

Lin stressed that holding direct presidential elections every four years has become an important part of Taiwan’s democracy. Thus he sees little prospect for a return to a cabinet system.    [FULL  STORY]