Shazi Island development sparks clash between Taipei mayoral candidates; residents accuse incumbent of broken promises

A sharp exchange erupted between Taipei mayoral candidates Shen Po-yang and Chiang Wan-an over the contentious development plans for Shazi Island. The debate, which took place on the 21st, saw Shen Po-yang, a candidate from the Democratic Progressive Party, directly challenge Chiang Wan-an's approach to the island's future.

Shen Po-yang characterized Chiang's proposed policy of "settle first, then relocate" as mere rhetoric, implying it lacked genuine commitment to resident welfare. This criticism highlights a fundamental disagreement on how to proceed with the long-stalled development project, which has been a source of frustration for many islanders.

Adding to the criticism, Li Hua-ping, spokesperson for the Shazi Island Residents' Self-Help Association, voiced deep dissatisfaction with Mayor Chiang's administration. Li stated that in nearly four years, Chiang had failed to engage in meaningful communication with residents. Instead, meetings were held without genuine resident participation, leading to a feeling of procedural overreach and a disregard for the community's concerns. Li accused Chiang of not understanding the island's complexities and of abandoning previous commitments, further fueling local discontent.