Taiwan Premier Criticized for 'Arrogant' Remarks on Toxic Oil Scandal

Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai has drawn sharp criticism for his handling of a food safety scandal involving contaminated cooking oil. Cho reportedly rebuked the Taipei City government for "rushing" to investigate the source of the toxic oil, an accusation that has ignited public anger.

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The cold-bloodedness is unbelievable.

Legislator Chen Ching-lung of the Taiwan People's Party condemned Cho's remarks, calling them "cold-blooded" and "unbelievable." Chen stated that the central government's response to the crisis, which has led to the recall of over 27,000 tons of tainted oil, has been chaotic. He criticized Cho for not only failing to reassure the public but also for reprimanding local authorities who were attempting to address the issue.

Chen further accused the Ministry of Health and Welfare of "covering up" the problem and deflecting blame onto the public. He cited remarks by Deputy Minister Lin Ching-yi, who suggested people eat fewer fried foods due to the potential formation of carcinogens at high temperatures. Chen described this as "living in a different world" and an "unbelievable level of arrogance."

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Living in a different world and unbelievable arrogance.

The legislator asserted that the scandal highlights the Ministry of Health and Welfare's negligence. He characterized Cho's cabinet not as an "AI action cabinet" but an "arrogant blame-shifting cabinet," questioning when Cho would resign.

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Arrogant blame-shifting cabinet.