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🇹🇼 Taiwan /Disasters & Emergencies

Journalist Questions Taipei Mayor on 'Typhoon Preparedness Day' Amidst Election Concerns

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Taipei declared a "typhoon preparedness day" instead of a typhoon day, sparking controversy as the storm caused little damage.
  • Veteran journalist Huang Wei-han questioned Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an on whether the holiday would have been declared without an upcoming election.
  • Netizens criticized the decision, suggesting it was politically motivated and inconsistent with future typhoon responses.

Taipei declared a "typhoon preparedness day" on July 10th in anticipation of Typhoon Barway, a decision that has since drawn significant criticism. Despite the storm causing minimal wind and rain in the city, Mayor Chiang Wan-an characterized the holiday as a "disaster preparedness day." This distinction has ignited a debate, particularly among media commentators and the public.

What is a 'typhoon preparedness day'? Allowing citizens to 'prepare for the typhoon' at home the day before the typhoon strikes?

— Huang Wei-hanQuestioning the definition and necessity of the declared holiday.

Veteran journalist Huang Wei-han directly challenged Mayor Chiang, posing three pointed questions. He asked if the holiday would have been declared if there were no elections this year, questioning the necessity of a "typhoon preparedness day" that allows citizens to stay home the day before a typhoon's arrival. Huang also inquired about the precedent for such a holiday and whether it would be a recurring practice.

The decision has resonated with many netizens, who voiced their opinions online. Common sentiments suggest the mayor's decision was influenced by the upcoming election cycle, with comments like "Chiang doesn't listen if there are no elections, but listens if there are elections." Others expressed hope for consistent application of "typhoon preparedness days" for all future typhoons, warning against future excuses.

If there are no elections this year, would a 'typhoon preparedness day' still be declared on the 10th?

— Huang Wei-hanImplying political motivation behind the decision.

Some comments also questioned the rationale, asking why a "typhoon recovery day" was not considered and if every typhoon should warrant a "prepare for the worst" approach. The controversy highlights public scrutiny over disaster-related decisions, especially when perceived political motivations are involved.

Many netizens commented: 'Chiang doesn't listen if there are no elections, but listens if there are elections.'

— NetizensExpressing skepticism about the mayor's motives.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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