TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Opposing recall rallies took place in Taichung on Saturday, with the KMT calling upon the public to oppose the recall, while a coalition of social groups urged the public to defend Taiwan by voting out lawmakers facing recall.

KMT heavyweights such as Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) appeared at Taichung Intercontinental Basketball Stadium. Both speakers urged the public to turn out in large numbers and vote against the recall, per CNA.

Han cited the failed recall vote for Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang (謝國樑) last year, noting the public voted their support for the KMT mayor, and allowed him to remain in office. Han cited Hsieh's willingness to listen to public opinion as a reason why he is still serving.

Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chair Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) also attended the rally and said the opposition was responsive to the public. He referred to the passage of the special budget, which includes a NT$10,000 cash handout to the public, as he asked, "What is wrong with returning money to the people?"

Huang said the recall vote in central Taiwan is crucial to national politics. "Only by defending Taichung can we protect the legislature and ensure democracy."

Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) said southern Taiwan was ravaged by flooding associated with Typhoon Danas. She said she was focused on disaster relief rather than politics.

Meanwhile, supporters of the recall initiative gathered at Taichung's Shuian Temple. The event included leaders of the recall initiative, such as Yeh Chun-lien (葉春蓮), a retired teacher from Hualien County; former legislator Chen Po-wei (陳柏惟); and UMC founder Robert Tsao (曹興誠).

Yeh said she had no hatred in her heart for any of the KMT lawmakers facing recall votes. She said the action is in response to the chaos opposition lawmakers brought to the legislature, with a reorganization needed to enable the legislature to work.

Meanwhile, Tsao said many legislators are actively weakening national defense and attempting to make Taiwan into yet another "Hong Kong." He called upon all citizens to resist such actions and actively oppose China, noting that a vote in favor of the recall initiative is a vote to protect Taiwan.