Hualien County Government Probed Over Alleged Misuse of 2018 Earthquake Relief Funds

Hualien County Government officials are facing scrutiny as prosecutors search for evidence related to allegations of improper use of earthquake relief funds donated after the 2018 Hualien earthquake. The investigation reportedly involves the county's Social Affairs Department director and several other individuals who have been questioned.

Taiwan Youth Democratic Association director Chang Yu-meng highlighted past controversies surrounding the 2.5 billion NT dollars in donations. He cited instances such as a "disaster relief appreciation dinner" costing over 10 million NT dollars, which involved splitting bids to circumvent procurement laws. Furthermore, funds designated for disaster relief were allegedly used for "public works" rather than direct assistance to affected residents, and "disability welfare funds" were reportedly diverted for publicity expenses.

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Hualien County Government has too many 'ghost stories'.

These past issues have fueled public distrust, leading many donors to direct their contributions to the Ministry of Health and Welfare instead of the Hualien County Government. Chang pointed to a specific case where tech mogul Tong Tzu-hsien claimed to have donated 50 million NT dollars, a claim that was reportedly denied by Hualien County Magistrate Fu Kun-chi, who threatened legal action.

The current investigation, which includes searches of several county government departments, has raised questions about its timing, occurring shortly before elections. The Hualien County Government has stated its cooperation with the investigation, noting that the matters under review are historical and that personnel have changed over time. However, critics suggest the timing may be politically motivated, while others believe these long-standing "ghost stories" are finally coming to light.

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The investigation's timing, with elections approaching, may raise external doubts about its motives.