Taiwan opposition rallies against 'toxic oil'; Mayor criticizes president's inaction

Thousands gathered in Taipei as opposition parties held a rally to protest against alleged toxic cooking oil, demanding government action on food safety. The demonstration, which concluded yesterday, saw leaders from various parties voice their concerns over the ongoing issue.

Following the rally, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen traveled to Hualien to attend a campaign event for a local candidate. There, she strongly criticized the central government's handling of the food safety crisis. Mayor Lu asserted that protesting for the public's well-being is an essential part of her duties as an elected official.

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Protesting for the people and protecting people's safety is working. Protecting food safety is public officials working.

Lu accused President Lai Ching-te of inaction, stating that a month after the toxic oil issue emerged, the government has failed to thoroughly investigate its causes or implement preventive measures. She questioned the necessity of taxpayers funding leaders who are perceived as inattentive to critical public safety matters. The mayor urged voters in Hualien to support local political figures committed to safeguarding the region's food security.

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The president is working, handling food safety.