Taiwanese councilor welcomes lawsuit as students demand apology over graduation ceremony heckling

Students at Wuling High School are mobilizing to demand an apology from Taoyuan City Councilor Zhan Jiang-tsun. The student council announced plans for a petition drive, calling on the school administration to address the issue and for the councilor to apologize for his public remarks. The controversy ignited after Zhan posted on social media criticizing students who allegedly heckled Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng during a graduation ceremony.

Zhan described the students' behavior as "uncivilized" and a sign of "educational failure." His comments drew criticism, and according to the article, led to some supporters of the KMT party engaging in online searches for the students involved. In response to the student council's petition, Zhan reiterated his stance, stating that if Wuling High School feels his comments have harmed its reputation, they are welcome to file a civil lawsuit against him.

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If Wuling students feel that I have damaged your school's reputation, you are welcome to file a civil lawsuit against me.

The councilor defended his actions, outlining a timeline of events. He claimed that he only commented on a video of the students' behavior, which was shared on social media, and did not identify the school or specific students. Zhan stated that he was reacting to what he perceived as a failure in school and family education, not intending to defame Wuling High School. He also mentioned that a student's mother had contacted his office, prompting him to delete his post and explain his reasons for doing so, emphasizing he did not know the student's name or appearance.

Despite facing potential backlash and a lack of support from within his own party, Zhan remains resolute. He declared, "The輿論浪潮 (public opinion wave) will not change my mind, even if I am pointed at by thousands, even if I am betrayed by all." He identified himself as "Mad Leopard, Lone Pleader, Village Chief Zhan Jiang-tsun," signaling his determination to stand by his comments regarding the students' conduct.

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The public opinion wave will not change my mind, even if I am pointed at by thousands, even if I am betrayed by all.