Cai Pei-ru Makes First Public Appearance After Short-Term Monastic Retreat at TPP Anniversary, Echoes Lu's Call for 'Toppling Lai'

Former Taiwan People's Party (TPP) legislator Cai Pei-ru recently completed a short-term monastic retreat at Fo Guang Shan and finished the program on the 1st. She attended the TPP's anniversary event today (2nd) as a Central Committee member. Regarding Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen's statement calling for a 'cabinet collapse in 2026 and toppling Lai in 2028,' Cai stated that since 2026 is a grassroots election, the party must demonstrate grassroots strength to win. For 2028, she reiterated her stance: 'We must unite all forces that can be united to achieve a party alternation. Party alternation is absolutely necessary. Everyone has had enough of President Lai Qing-de's irresponsible actions. This ruling party is truly despicable.'

On her short-term monastic experience, Cai explained that the opportunity arose after meeting Fo Guang Shan's abbot during a local visit. Knowing political work is extremely demanding, the abbot suggested she consider a short-term retreat if the chance arose. With the timing aligning, she enrolled. 'This week has been highly structured. Chanting scriptures brought profound inner peace—a rare chance to reflect during an otherwise hectic year. It was an excellent experience,' she said.

Regarding her joint appearance this morning with KMT Taichung mayoral candidate Chiang Chi-chen, Cai noted that their staff teams have been closely coordinating. While she rarely uses the term 'blue-white alliance,' she prefers to say 'unite all forces that can be united' to ensure policy continuity. She criticized former DPP Mayor Lin Chia-long's administration in Taichung, which cut the 65+ health insurance subsidy and halted major public projects like the BRT, earning him the nickname 'the mayor who halted construction.' Once budgets are approved, policies should be carried forward regardless of party, she emphasized.

Reiterating her support for Lu's 'topple the cabinet in 2026, topple Lai in 2028' slogan, Cai stressed that grassroots strength is key in 2026. For 2028, unity remains paramount. 'People can no longer tolerate Lai Qing-de's reckless rhetoric. From the mass recall movement in February last year to the current tainted oil scandal, the ruling party has held power for so long yet fails to provide answers to the public. I truly believe this ruling party is utterly despicable,' she declared.