Taichung officials probed for leaks; mayor links probe to president's visit, drawing criticism

Taichung city officials are under scrutiny following a search and seizure operation by the Taichung District Prosecutors Office. The investigation centers on alleged leaks related to a 2020 labor procurement case. Among those questioned were Yen Nai-lun, former secretary-general of the city government, and Lee Cheng-hsuan, a former Taipei spokesperson who also served as a secretary in the Taichung mayor's office. Both were granted bail.

Mayor Lu Shiow-yen alluded to political motivations behind the timing of the investigation, suggesting it was suspicious given President Lai Ching-te's recent visit to Taichung with the Democratic Progressive Party's Central Executive Committee. However, DPP city councilor Chou Yung-hung strongly refuted this, accusing the mayor of self-aggrandizement. Chou argued that the investigation is not centered around the president and urged Lu to clarify internal procurement management issues within her administration.

Chou pointed out that the two individuals granted bail held key advisory positions within Lu's administration. He questioned the decision-making and execution processes of the procurement in question and how city government information was managed. Chou criticized Lu for linking the presidential visit to the investigation, stating it was an attempt to deflect from her own administration's problems.

The Taichung City Government stated that the case is under judicial investigation and they respect and will cooperate with the process. They expressed hope for a swift clearance for those involved if no wrongdoing is found, to protect the reputation of the city government and its staff.