Taiwan assures housing services continuity amid embezzlement probe of property firm's ex-chairman

Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior is taking steps to guarantee the uninterrupted operation of its social housing rental services amidst allegations of significant embezzlement against the former chairman of Zhaoji Property Management. The former chairman, Li Jian-cheng, is accused of misappropriating 700 million NT dollars (approximately $22 million) in investment funds through associated companies, a scandal that could affect nearly 30,000 households involved in the national social housing program.

In response, the ministry stated that the rental services are currently functioning normally. They have convened meetings with county and city governments to assess the situation and have not yet received any public complaints. The National Housing and Urban Development Center and local governments are closely monitoring the execution of contracts and will supervise operators to ensure they fulfill their responsibilities according to agreements and regulations.

To address potential concerns among landlords and tenants regarding contract termination or changes due to the operator's disputes, the ministry has instructed relevant departments to collaborate with rental service associations in six major cities. The goal is to establish a transition mechanism to ensure the rental services continue without interruption and that the rights of all parties are protected.

The Ministry of the Interior has also emphasized its full cooperation with investigative authorities looking into the case. It affirmed that if any violations of contracts or laws are discovered, the responsible parties will be held accountable according to the law. The ministry aims to reassure the public that the integrity of the social housing program remains a priority.