Lawmaker Slams Anti-Drug Rally as Political Ploy, Cites Budget Obstruction

A legislator from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has sharply criticized a large anti-drug rally held over the weekend, labeling it a "politically motivated show" that misdirects public attention and shirks responsibility.

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The '725 Anti-Drug Oil Rally' was a politically motivated show that misplaced its focus and shirked responsibility.

DPP legislator Chen Pei-yu stated that while politicians on stage at the "725 Anti-Drug Oil Rally" delivered impassioned speeches, many of them have simultaneously obstructed budget reviews in the Legislative Yuan. She argued that those in power protesting on the streets are using the demonstration as a "fig leaf for administrative laziness." Chen pointed out that mayors and legislators with significant authority were leading the charge, questioning why local health bureaus in opposition-led cities were not actively inspecting markets and factories for contaminated products.

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Those in power protesting on the streets are using the demonstration as a fig leaf for administrative laziness.

Chen emphasized that establishing a robust food safety network requires funding for enhanced inspection equipment and increased personnel. She expressed regret that the current year's budget has been stalled in the legislature for over 300 days, with many of the same politicians who rallied on Saturday being the ones blocking its approval. "If they truly care about food safety, the most important action is to return to the Legislative Yuan, strictly review, and accelerate the passage of the food safety budget crucial for people's livelihoods," she stated.

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If they truly care about food safety, the most important action is to return to the Legislative Yuan, strictly review, and accelerate the passage of the food safety budget crucial for people's livelihoods.

Furthermore, Chen condemned the use of divisive language during the rally's organization, citing a slogan that implied those not participating were worthless. She stressed that eradicating food safety crises requires both diligent administrative and local inspections, as well as legislative action to complete regulations and budgets, providing frontline inspectors with adequate resources. Chen urged politicians to return to their offices and legislative chambers, allow health bureaus to conduct inspections, and let the Legislative Yuan approve budgets, calling for an end to the "political drama" and a return to systemic solutions.

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Food safety knows no party, but food safety absolutely cannot become a tool for election calculations.