Taipei mayor criticized for typhoon holiday amid clear skies; councilor says his unpopularity is self-inflicted

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an is facing criticism after his administration declared a typhoon holiday on a day with no wind or rain, leading to questions about economic losses. City Councilor Hsu Shu-hua of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has been vocal in her critique, arguing that while the mayor has the authority to declare such holidays, he must also take responsibility for the accompanying consequences.

Hsu emphasized the need for scientific data to justify typhoon holiday decisions, suggesting that the mayor should have presented evidence like soil moisture levels and warning thresholds. She believes that without such data, the public is left questioning the necessity of the holiday and its impact on the economy. Hsu pointed out that the mayor's reliance on exceptional clauses requires stronger justification, especially when the weather conditions do not warrant it.

The councilor also highlighted the importance of accompanying measures for such decisions, particularly for citizens with essential needs like medical appointments. She stated that her role in pointing out these issues is to help the mayor improve his governance, not to attack him. Hsu suggested that the blue camp's attacks against her are misplaced and that the focus should instead be on improving the system for future reference.

Responding to the criticism, Hsu asserted that Chiang's declining popularity is a result of his own actions. She dismissed the blue camp's attacks on her as unproductive, urging them to return to a systemic discussion rather than engaging in personal or political attacks. Hsu believes that addressing the core issues and improving the decision-making process is crucial for the city's administration.