Lee Chuan-chuan defends Hokkien pronunciation amid election criticism

Lee Chuan-chuan, a candidate for New Taipei City mayor, has become the target of criticism regarding his Hokkien (Taiwanese) pronunciation. Responding to the challenges, Lee asserted his identity as a "true Taiwanese" who has spoken the language for more than six decades. He emphasized that Hokkien is his mother tongue and a fundamental part of Taiwanese heritage.

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I have spoken Hokkien for over 60 years. This is my mother tongue, and it is also Taiwan's mother tongue.

During a visit to a community animal adoption center, Lee addressed the controversy surrounding his pronunciation of "Sanchong," a district in New Taipei City. He noted that his pronunciation, "Sam-tiông," is consistent with how former Premier Su Tseng-chang and President Lai Ching-te pronounce it. Lee questioned the motives behind using language differences as a political tactic, suggesting it was a form of smearing during the election campaign.

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Why is it that for an election, even the mother tongue is used for smearing? I really don't know what to say.

Lee also called for a more civil election process, urging his opponents to refrain from personal attacks or digging into the lives of his family and neighbors. He highlighted that the Taipei City Councilor's questioning of an awning issue was based on misinformation and unfairly dismissed the hard work of civil servants. Lee stressed his commitment to peaceful competition and maintaining the integrity of the campaign.

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I still want to urge my opponents to compete peacefully in the election and not to smear or dig into my family and neighbors, causing trouble.