Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an Criticized for Missing Food Safety Meetings Amid National Security Calls

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an faces accusations of hypocrisy for demanding President Lai Ching-te convene a national security meeting on food safety, while he himself has been largely absent from his city's own food safety committee meetings. Social Democratic Party Taipei City Councilor Miao Po-ya revealed that Chiang, as the convener of Taipei's food safety meetings, has missed 73% of them.

DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang criticized Chiang's actions as a "double standard." He pointed out that while Chiang calls for central government action, he neglects his responsibilities in addressing local food safety concerns. Shen emphasized the importance of a mayor being present during food safety emergencies, drawing a parallel to a mayor's duty during typhoons.

Shen noted that Chiang's last attendance at a food safety meeting was in 2024, highlighting his low attendance rate. He questioned why Chiang, if he considers food safety a priority, would have such a poor attendance record. Shen urged Chiang to take local issues more seriously and accused him of being "too protected" and irresponsible towards the public.

Regarding criticism of his own engagement on food safety, Shen stated his consistent position: central and local governments must collaborate. He explained his role as a legislator in urging the Food and Drug Administration to establish a dedicated zone and regular reporting mechanism for food safety issues. Shen contrasted this with Chiang's low attendance, questioning if other KMT legislators are aware of the mayor's absenteeism.