Taiwan Control Yuan Nominee Seeks Parliamentary Powers, Constitutional Reform
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Chen Yung-hsing, nominated to head Taiwan's Control Yuan, expressed a desire for parliamentary investigative and impeachment powers.
- He hopes for constitutional reform to a three-branch system from the current five-branch system.
- Chen pledged to serve impartially and uphold justice and human rights if confirmed.
Chen Yung-hsing, nominated by President Lai Ching-te to lead Taiwan's Control Yuan, has voiced his support for granting the legislature stronger investigative and impeachment authorities. He expressed optimism about potential constitutional reforms that would transition Taiwan from its current five-branch governmental system to a more conventional three-branch structure, aligning with modern democratic states.
If the consensus can be reached in the future, the constitution can be amended to change the five-power constitution to a three-power separation of the modern democratic country's constitution, allowing the parliament to have investigative and impeachment powers, I am optimistic to see it.
During a press conference introducing nominees, Chen shared his personal reflections, stating his lifelong commitment to justice and human rights. He prayed for rational consideration from the legislature during the confirmation process, urging a move beyond partisan divisions to enhance the Control Yuan's functionality and better protect human rights while reducing wrongful convictions.
Chen acknowledged the significant responsibility of the nomination, initially hesitating due to his age and desire for a peaceful retirement focused on social welfare. However, he felt a calling to public service, viewing the Control Yuan's role as embodying "doing justice and loving mercy." He committed to serving impartially, transcending party interests, and upholding the principles of clean governance and human rights protection.
The Control Yuan should be an institution that 'does justice and loves mercy,' serving as a unit to maintain social fairness and justice and an institution to implement human rights protection.
He also addressed the current political climate, recognizing the challenges of confirmation in a polarized legislature. Despite these hurdles, Chen stated his willingness to contribute his abilities and faith to Taiwan's future, believing divine guidance would support his efforts. His nomination is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the Control Yuan's oversight of public officials and ensure justice for citizens.
I am a Christian and a worker who pursues justice and upholds human rights. The president is willing to trust me and entrust me with the task of the Control Yuan. I must share the president's worries and work together for the future of the Taiwanese people and the country, and also bear witness to God's good work.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.