Taiwan candidate Wu Hsiu-hua alleges judicial persecution, election interference

Taitung County Magistrate candidate Wu Hsiu-hua has accused the judiciary of persecution and attempting to influence the upcoming election. The accusation comes as the Taitung District Prosecutors Office investigates a case involving the expansion of a rural road, which prosecutors allege was done to benefit the family of Wu, a KMT candidate for county magistrate.

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We are not afraid, and the campaign team will fight this election step by step and win.

Two county government officials and an assistant to Wu have been detained in connection with the investigation into alleged corruption and favoritism. Wu, speaking at her campaign headquarters, declared she was unafraid and would win the election. She emphasized that businesses investing legally in Taitung and promoting local employment should not be stigmatized. Wu suggested that the recent judicial actions were politically motivated, aimed at creating pressure on grassroots officials and impacting the election.

"We are not afraid, and the campaign team will fight this election step by step and win," Wu stated. She called for the election to focus on policies and platforms, rather than "smearing and splashing dirty water." Her campaign team also indicated they would pursue legal action against any false accusations.

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I believe the judiciary will eventually clear her name.

County Magistrate Rao Ching-ling, who chairs Wu's campaign, offered support, stating, "I believe the judiciary will eventually clear her name." Rao embraced Wu, who became emotional. The case highlights the intersection of political campaigns and legal investigations in Taiwan, with candidates often accusing opponents of using the justice system for political gain.

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All enterprises that invest legally in Taitung and promote employment in Taitung should not be labeled negatively.