DPP Lawmaker Ker Chien-ming Appears in Court for Alleged Negligent Injury of KMT Lawmaker Hsu Chih-hsin, Citing Constitutional Defense

Taipei District Court held a hearing today regarding the case of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Ker Chien-ming, who was indicted for negligent injury following an incident in the Legislative Yuan in 2025 where he allegedly struck a desk with a cane, injuring Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Hsu Chih-hsin.

Prior to the hearing, Ker stated he was there to uphold constitutional principles, arguing that prosecutors should not interfere with parliamentary operations. He claimed the proceedings were both illegal and unconstitutional, and entered a plea of not guilty.

When asked about his absence from the previous hearing, which nearly led to an arrest warrant, Ker cited constitutional protections regarding the immunity of legislators. The presiding judge stated that the case will now proceed to the trial stage.

The case stems from an incident on March 25, 2025, when Ker, expressing dissatisfaction with legislative procedures, struck a desk with a telescoping cane. The cane tip detached and struck Hsu’s right arm, causing bruising. While prosecutors found no intent to cause injury, they indicted Ker for negligent injury in February. The court proceedings continue following initial procedural disputes over attendance and parliamentary immunity.