TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Lawmakers from the DPP occupied the rostrum at the Legislative Yuan on Friday delaying votes on two controversial referendums. 

On Friday morning, the President of the Legislative Yuan Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) was preparing to open a discussion on two referendums to oppose abolishing the death penalty and the imposition of martial law. DPP caucus members, led by convener Ker Chien-ming (柯建銘), rushed to the rostrum to disrupt proceedings, with Ker seizing the gavel, reported UDN. 

DPP lawmakers were reportedly angered by the presence of a pro-unification New Party deputy Secretary-General You Chih-bin (游智彬), live streaming from the Legislative Yuan’s press area. They accused You of making sexist remarks and insulting DPP legislators in his broadcast, reported LTN. 

Ker and other DPP lawmakers confronted Han at the rostrum demanding to know why You was allowed to enter and film proceedings. This led to a shouting match between DPP and KMT lawmakers. 

After multiple attempts to restore order, Han called for a recess until 2:30 p.m. At the request of DPP Legislator Wu Szu-yao (吳思瑤), the Legislative Yuan pledged to review You’s press credentials. 

After reconvening, DPP caucus members continued to protest and argue with opposition members. Han then called for another break without discussion or votes on any referendums. 

DPP lawmakers criticized Han and the KMT for assisting “hostile forces,” and called for the mass recall of KMT lawmakers, per SETN.