KMT calls for 200,000 to gather in Taipei for 'anti-toxic oil' protest; Executive Yuan responds

Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party organized a large-scale rally at Ketagalan Boulevard in Taipei, drawing a claimed crowd of over 200,000 people to protest against what they termed "toxic oil." The demonstration focused on concerns regarding food safety standards and government oversight.

In response, Executive Yuan spokesperson Li Hui-chih affirmed the government's respect for diverse opinions in a democratic society. She urged participating local officials and public servants to return to their duties, emphasizing the need for central and local governments to collaborate and engage in rational dialogue. "Food safety knows no blue or green, no ruling or opposition party," Li stated, underscoring the non-partisan nature of the issue.

The government highlighted its ongoing efforts to address food safety concerns, including factory inspections, tracking product distribution, and product recalls. Li mentioned that prosecutors are continuing their investigations into problematic oil products, and the Executive Yuan has already proposed amendments to the Food Safety Act. The administration stressed that effective food safety protection requires close cooperation between central and local authorities, focusing on source management, rigorous checks, and transparency.

This rally occurred amidst a backdrop of political tension, with the KMT seeking to mobilize public support on a key consumer issue. The government's response focused on de-escalating political rhetoric and redirecting the focus toward practical solutions and collaborative governance to ensure public well-being.

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Food safety knows no blue or green, no ruling or opposition party.