Taiwan Political Sparks Fly: Accusations of Using Citizens as "Tools" in New Taipei Event

Controversy Erupts as Opposition Party Criticizes Ruling Party's Policy Presentation in New Taipei City

A recent policy presentation in New Taipei City, organized by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has sparked controversy. Three city councilors from the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) have voiced strong criticism, accusing the DPP of using citizens as "tools" and blurring the lines between government and party politics.

The event, titled "The People are the Boss," saw the participation of high-ranking officials, including some from the Executive Yuan, who were criticized for supporting a recall campaign. The KMT councilors allege that the event was, in essence, a preliminary campaign warm-up for key DPP figures like Secretary-General 林右昌 (Lin You-chang) and Legislator 蘇巧慧 (Su Chiao-hui).

Adding fuel to the fire, attendees reportedly showed confusion, with some mistakenly addressing 蘇巧慧 (Su Chiao-hui) as "County Magistrate" and 林右昌 (Lin You-chang) as "Secretary-General." 陳偉杰 (Chen Wei-chieh), one of the KMT councilors, criticized the DPP, alleging they exploited New Taipei City residents by busing them to the event and spreading misinformation to demonize the opposition. He further condemned the involvement of impartial Executive Yuan officials in promoting a recall campaign, denouncing the use of government resources and the lack of separation between party and state. He found it ironic and counter-productive for the DPP to host an event called "The People are the Boss" under such circumstances.