Commissioned to produce 'You Can't Oil Me' deepfake promotion? Chiang Wan-an responds

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has become embroiled in a controversy surrounding a deepfake promotional video titled "You Can't Oil Me." The issue escalated when police visited the video's producer, Wei Chun-yu, leading Chiang to publicly state that any criticism should be directed at him. He asserted that he had asked Wei's team to assist in producing promotional content.

Chiang's remarks have been interpreted by some as an admission of commissioning the specific deepfake video. However, he clarified his statement, explaining that during a recent meeting with former party chairman Eric Chu, he had requested Wei's team's help with promotions. Chiang emphasized that the core issue is the government's alleged suppression of free speech, which he described as "state violence" against individuals and staff.

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If there's anything, come at me!

During a press conference following a meeting with the Democratic Progressive Party caucus, reporters pressed Chiang for details about the promotional video he commissioned. He reiterated that the matter concerns the government's use of judicial means for political persecution, targeting individuals like Wei, whom he referred to as "the little editor." Chiang stressed that such actions are unacceptable to the public.

The mayor's defense has framed the situation as a defense of free expression against perceived government overreach. He called on the current administration to confront him directly rather than targeting individuals involved in content creation. The controversy highlights tensions between political figures, media production, and the use of digital technologies in public discourse.

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The core of this matter is the state using state violence to suppress freedom of speech. The people cannot accept using judicial means for political persecution.