Taichung Mayor criticized for appointing loyalists as term ends

As Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen's term approaches its final five months, a wave of new appointments within the city government has sparked significant controversy. Four current department heads, including those overseeing tourism, economic development, water resources, and labor, have been moved to positions as counselors or consultants, while also taking on acting director roles in their previous departments. This reshuffling has led to accusations that Lu is prioritizing her close associates, often referred to as the "Lu family army," by securing them positions as her term concludes.

This latest round of appointments adds to a pattern observed last year, where other department heads were similarly placed in counselor or acting director roles. City council members have voiced strong opposition, with some alleging that these moves are a form of personal reward for loyalists and effectively block promotion opportunities for dedicated civil servants. Councilors like Chen Shu-hua and Yang Tien-chung have criticized the mayor, particularly in light of a recent food safety crisis involving a local oil company, arguing that the administration should be focused on crisis management rather than arranging comfortable post-term positions for allies.

The Taichung City Government's Personnel Department defended the appointments, stating they comply with relevant laws and regulations governing public service. They asserted that these personnel adjustments will not impede the city's ongoing administrative functions. However, critics remain unconvinced, viewing the actions as a self-serving maneuver that undermines public trust and the integrity of the civil service system, especially when critical issues like food safety demand the administration's full attention.