Taipei: The main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) has accused President Lai Ching-te of exhibiting a "double standard" following his announcement on Monday regarding plans to distribute NT$10,000 (US$314) in cash to eligible recipients next year.

According to Focus Taiwan, the KMT, through its Culture and Communications Committee Director Chen I-hsin, highlighted that the party had initially proposed a similar NT$10,000 cash payment in May. Chen mentioned that a bill containing this provision had already passed its first reading in the Legislative Yuan. Criticism was directed towards President Lai for announcing the cash handout close to Taiwan's November local elections, with Chen noting that Lai described it as an "AI dividend to be shared by all."

Earlier, President Lai had stated that Taiwan's economic growth is anticipated to reach a peak not seen in 39 years, attributing this to the country's proficiency in semiconductors, information and communications technology, and manufacturing supply chains. The planned cash handout, amounting to NT$235.7 billion, was intended to enable citizens to partake in the economic growth benefits.

Chen further asserted that when the KMT proposed the cash handout in May, the Cabinet had prioritized "fiscal discipline," emphasizing that budget allocations should focus on national defense, major infrastructure, and debt repayment. He questioned why the expenditure was deemed a "fiscal burden" previously, yet is now being promoted as an "AI dividend."

The KMT also accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)-led government of a "double standard," stressing their earlier proposal to utilize government surpluses and excess tax revenue for cash handouts. The KMT legislative caucus, through Secretary-General Lin Pei-hsiang, supported the handout but demanded clarity on its legal foundation and reasons for deferring the distribution despite robust economic growth and increased tax revenue.

In addition, Taiwan People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang commented via Facebook, highlighting the DPP's previous criticisms of similar proposals by opposition lawmakers, which were dismissed as a "money pit." He accused President Lai of a "double standard" for now proposing a similar handout plan.