TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — United Microelectronics Corporation founder Robert Tsao (曹興誠) said in an interview published Wednesday that the ongoing mass recall campaign targeting KMT lawmakers is a form of resistance against Beijing’s influence in Taiwan.

Speaking with Nikkei Asia, Tsao alleged the CCP has been cultivating the KMT as its “Trojan horse” for the past 20 years. He argued that for Taiwan to maintain stability and ensure national security, KMT legislators must be removed from power.

Tsao, who has long voiced concerns over cross-strait tensions, said he initially supported a political union with China through a public referendum. However, he said his stance shifted after the 2019 Hong Kong Anti-Extradition Law protests, which he viewed as evidence that Beijing does not honor its political commitments.

In addition to concerns over the KMT’s ties to Beijing, Tsao criticized the party’s response to international developments, including its proposal to attract more Chinese tourists to Taiwan. He argued such moves would draw Taiwan further into China’s political orbit.

Tsao also disapproved of frequent visits to China by senior KMT figures, which he interpreted as undermining Taiwan’s sovereignty.

Regarding Taiwan’s defense, Tsao emphasized that the country must strengthen its capabilities regardless of international support. He called on the public to actively support efforts to safeguard Taiwan’s autonomy in the face of rising threats from Beijing.