May 20 marked the first anniversary of Lai Ching-te’s tenure as leader of the Taiwan region, and in cities across the island—from Taipei to Taichung—residents of Taiwan have taken to the streets to voice their frustrations.
Protesters have accused the Taiwan authorities of rolling out policies that fall short of public expectations and of stifling dissent under what they call a 'green terror' climate. On the streets of Taipei, a stringer interviewed locals to gauge the mood.
A woman surnamed Deng said, 'The green terror in Taiwan has harmed our interests and restricted our freedom of speech.'
Meanwhile, a man surnamed Li argued, 'Lai Ching-te seems to be pushing for one-party dominance, purging all dissenting voices.'
As demonstrations spread, many residents of Taiwan say these protests are a barometer for deeper discontent over governance and civil liberties. With the administration entering its second year, observers will watch closely how the Taiwan authorities respond to calls for reform.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Taiwan residents criticize Lai Ching-te for creating 'green terror'
cgtn.com
