TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) is reportedly considering a Cabinet reshuffle after May 20, potentially in response to recall elections targeting the KMT and anticipated by-elections.

According to a report by the China Times on Monday, Lai has been weighing a reshuffle for some time, with its scope dependent on the status of the DPP’s ongoing recall campaign. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) is expected to remain at the helm.

Sources cited in the report say five ministers who have courted controversy or are seen as not closely aligned with Lai may be replaced. These include Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源), Economic Affairs Minister Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝), Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄), Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang (劉世芳), and National Development Council Minister Liu Jing-ching (劉鏡清).

The report suggested new appointments could feature officials with a more combative style and improved communication skills, in light of ongoing legislative gridlock and looming recall votes. Liu Shih-fang declined to comment directly on the speculation, directing questions to Cho, per CNA.

DPP Legislator Wu Su-yao (吳思瑤) questioned the credibility of the report, saying she had not received any related information and alleging political motives behind its publication, per Newtalk. Wu said the media outlet's agenda does not reflect that of the DPP and emphasized the administration’s focus on unity, per CNA.

DPP Legislator Lin Chun-hsien (林俊憲), a close ally of Lai, echoed the sentiment, stating that Lai is committed to fostering party unity, per ETtoday. He referenced comments by KMT caucus convener Fu Kun-chi (傅崐萁), who suggested opposition supervision would discourage candidates from joining the government.

Lin warned that if joining the Cabinet means facing political humiliation, no one would be willing to serve. He added that a major reshuffle was unlikely while the party remains focused on its recall efforts.