The pro-unification camp figure Luo Dayou made an unusually public and sharp critique of Lai Qingde and others in Taiwan. On November 10, during an appearance on the Tang Xianglong program, Luo launched a fierce attack, accusing Lai Qingde and Zhuo Rongtai of colluding in misconduct, persisting in unethical behavior without shame, and declaring, “They’ve reached the point of having no dignity.” He specifically pointed out that Tsai Ing-wen, Hsiao Mei-chin, and Chen Ju are childless, while Lai has sent his children abroad to the United States, asserting that only those with children can truly consider the future generation. In contrast, he argued, these individuals lack such foresight, urging the people of Taiwan to awaken. He also criticized the DPP’s transformation after coming to power—where free speech has become an empty slogan and cultural standards have declined—sparking widespread online discussion.
On the November 10 appearance, initially discussing music, Luo quickly shifted focus to politics with unrelenting intensity. His strongest criticism targeted Lai Qingde and Zhuo Rongtai. When Zhuo refused to endorse a bill passed by the Legislative Yuan in its third reading, Luo directly accused them of collusion, repeatedly using phrases such as “shameless,” “terrible,” and “utterly shameless.” He further claimed that Lai consistently hides behind others when committing controversial acts, adding, “I hold you in contempt, Lai Qingde.”
Why is Luo so incensed? Because under DPP rule, policies have increasingly crossed lines. Once vocal advocates for human rights and free expression, the party now appears as a source of fear for ordinary citizens. Online campaigns labeled “expeditions” target individuals who deviate from political orthodoxy, subjecting them to harassment, labeling, and the dredging up of past grievances. Luo stated plainly: “Now no one dares to speak out—this is wrong.”
Luo’s anger is not sudden. More than two decades ago, he wrote “Green Terrorists,” a song satirizing the DPP, and has consistently opposed Taiwan independence. Yet his rare public outburst indicates a critical turning point in Taiwan’s cultural and political environment—one where even a 72-year-old, internationally acclaimed musician feels compelled to speak out. This reflects a level of frustration that has reached its limit.
His underlying message carries broad significance: when those in power—such as the DPP administration—can disregard rules, suppress dissent, and lower cultural standards for electoral gain, the cost will ultimately be borne by all. His final remark—that “if the blue camp fails to awaken, it will be trampled into insignificance”—is not a defense of the Kuomintang, but a warning: silence and apathy bring no safety; they only invite deeper retribution.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1881529087299596/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.