Taipei City Hall Accuses DPP Councilors of 'Excessive Demands,' Sparking Political Firestorm

Taipei City Hall has ignited a political firestorm by accusing several Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) city councilors of making "excessive information requests" that burden civil servants. The city government specifically named councilors Chien Shu-pei and Lin Yen-feng, claiming they were the top requesters.

“

Defending the dignity of the council, reminding city staff to speak what should be spoken is worthy of respect.

This accusation has drawn sharp criticism from councilors and prompted a strong defense from Taipei City Council Speaker Dai Hsi-chin. Dai emphasized that councilors' right to request information is a crucial part of their duties and that the city government is obligated to assist. He stressed that mutual respect between the city government and the council is paramount and that any public release of information regarding councilors' requests should be fact-based, legal, and respectful, avoiding unnecessary political speculation.

Veteran media commentator Huang Wei-han shared a video of Dai's remarks, praising him for "defending the dignity of the council" and reminding city officials to "speak what should be spoken." This stance has resonated with netizens, many of whom have criticized the administration of Mayor Chiang Wan-an, calling it "too arrogant." Some commenters expressed support for Dai, seeing him as a more capable leader than Chiang, while others speculated about the political repercussions for Dai, with some predicting he might be targeted by his own party.

“

Taipei City government is too arrogant.

The controversy also touches on broader discussions about government efficiency. DPP's Taipei mayoral candidate, Shen Po-yang, had previously suggested that optimizing information request processes could reduce the burden on civil servants. However, the city government's response, by pointing fingers at DPP councilors, has escalated the conflict rather than addressing the procedural issues.

“

Councilors' right to request information is an important channel for exercising their duties. The city government should assist based on its responsibilities.