Taipei Mayor's 77% Absence Rate from Committees Sparks Political Row

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an faces criticism for a 77% absence rate from 21 committees he chairs, a figure highlighted by city councilor Yen Jo-fang. Yen urged the mayor to focus on his duties, noting his initial active participation waned over time.

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Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has an average absence rate of 77% from 21 committees he chairs.

In response, Taipei City government deputy spokesperson Tsai Wan-ling defended Chiang, questioning councilor Yen's standards by pointing out that President Lai Ching-te has not convened a national security meeting regarding the recent "toxic oil" scandal. Tsai stated that Mayor Chiang has personally convened special meetings to oversee food safety issues and has been transparent about the city's investigation progress, unlike the central government which she accused of attempting to suppress information.

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President Lai Ching-te has not convened a national security meeting regarding the 'toxic oil' scandal.

Tsai further criticized the central government's handling of the scandal, citing a three-week delay in forming an investigative team and a poorly organized meeting with six major cities that achieved little. She accused the councilor of defending the central government's perceived inaction by attacking the transparent city government, suggesting the public would see through this tactic.

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Mayor Chiang has personally convened special meetings to oversee food safety issues and has been transparent about the city's investigation progress.