OCAC chief under investigation for alleged conflict of interest

Hsu Chia-ching, the head of Taiwan's Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), faces scrutiny over her son's participation in an ecological experience camp on Dongsha Island. Allegations suggest that Hsu relaxed the event's eligibility requirements, creating an opening for her son to join the trip.

The OCAC organized the "Overseas Youth Dongsha Ecological Experience Camp" last year. Reports indicate that Hsu Chia-ching is now under investigation by the Control Yuan, Taiwan's top watchdog body, for potentially violating the "Civil Servants Conflict of Interest and Avoidance Act." If found guilty, she could face fines ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$2 million.

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We respect the Control Yuan's investigation.

Responding to the allegations, the Democratic Progressive Party's legislative caucus stated they respect the Control Yuan's investigation. The caucus whip, Chuang Jui-hsiung, addressed recent criticisms from the Taiwan People's Party regarding Hsu's overseas trips, suggesting they were disguised tourism. Chuang defended Hsu, noting that OCAC leadership frequently travels abroad to connect with overseas Taiwanese communities, a practice common among past officeholders.

Regarding the specific allegations of her son's participation, Chuang reiterated that the party respects the Control Yuan's findings on whether Hsu's actions complied with legal regulations and the conflict of interest law. He emphasized that the law applies equally to all public officials, regardless of political affiliation, and that adherence to the law is paramount in a democratic society.

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The law applies to everyone, regardless of party affiliation, and acting according to the law is the best approach in a democratic country.