Taiwanese activist slams lawmakers for freezing premier's salary amid national security debate

Taiwan's legislature has frozen Premier Cho Jung-tai's salary for four months, a move that has sparked strong criticism from activist Chang Yu-meng. The legislative action, a joint effort by the KMT and TPP parties, targets Cho's salary from September to December.

Chang Yu-meng, chairman of the Taiwan Youth Generation Association for Common Good, condemned the salary freeze, contrasting Cho's stance with that of KMT legislator Weng Hsiao-ling. Chang accused Weng of being solely focused on "money and power" while the nation discusses "defending the country." He highlighted Cho's firm response to the freeze, stating that the Premier would "insist on it" if his position was the only obstacle to preventing reduced sentences for soldiers defecting to the enemy.

The controversy stems from proposed amendments to the "Act for Punishments of Soldiers," which would lower the maximum penalty for military defection from seven years to five. Chang criticized Weng Hsiao-ling's perceived legal ignorance, pointing out that while legislative budget proposals can have conditions attached, these conditions cannot be illegal. He argued that Weng selectively cited Article 52 of the Budget Act, omitting the clause that invalidates conditions forbidden by law.

Chang further warned that this precedent could empower legislators to threaten civil servants with salary freezes if their demands are not met, effectively merging legislative and executive powers. He drew a parallel to a quote by politician Han Kuo-yu, suggesting Weng's focus on salary was akin to discussing a "mouthwash cup" when the larger issue is the "sea."