Taiwan Lawmakers Vote 60-51 to Start Impeachment Process Against William Lai

A historic constitutional standoff has gripped the island. According to the South China Morning Post, Taiwan's legislature passed a motion on Friday, December 26, 2025, to initiate impeachment proceedings against leader William Lai Ching-te. The motion, supported by the opposition-controlled legislature, argues that Lai's administration has undermined the self-ruled island's constitutional order.

A Dispute Over Revenue and Authority

The conflict stems from a failed enactment of a fiscal amendment. The law would've granted local governments a larger share of public revenue, but the executive branch refused to put it into effect. It's the first time in Taiwan's modern history that the executive branch has openly declined to implement a law passed by the Legislative Yuan. Premier Cho Jung-tai could also face impeachment for his failure to countersign the amendment.

The Road to May 19

The legislature voted 60 to 51 in favor of the motion. Per legislative procedures, a series of hearings will be held leading up to a formal impeachment vote scheduled for May 19, 2026. While the opposition holds the majority, the process is expected to trigger intense political debate and public demonstrations across the island over the coming months.