TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Saturday he would retain Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) as premier even though he tendered his resignation several times following the recall defeats in July.

Attempts to recall 24 KMT legislators on July 26 completely failed and Lai spoke after recall votes Saturday against a further seven lawmakers also ended in defeat. The result leaves the opposition KMT and the smaller TPP with a majority at the Legislative Yuan.

At a news conference after the results were announced, Lai said he would respond to public opinion and reshuffle the Cabinet to boost the team’s efficiency, the Liberty Times reported. He added that at a time when there was still uncertainty about US tariffs and recovery after damaging typhoons, there was a need for government stability.

The emphasis of the new government should be on the economy, social policies, the underprivileged, and youth, Lai said. He also hoped for more and improved interaction between the government and opposition, and for reforms of the nation’s financial structure. 

The president concluded with a call for solidarity to help safeguard Taiwan’s democracy, security, and prosperity into the future.