Taiwanese legislator clarifies proposal, seeks probe into meeting leak

Taiwanese legislator Wang Shih-chien has clarified remarks made during a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Central Executive Committee meeting, addressing reports that President and party Chairman Lai Ching-te was surprised by his proposal. Wang suggested that Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang should announce his intention to appoint Administrative Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan as deputy mayor if elected. According to reports, Lai reacted with surprise, questioning the feasibility of such an appointment if Shen wins. However, Wang stated that Lai was not displeased and emphasized his own good intentions behind the suggestion. He called for an investigation into who leaked the internal party discussions, expressing frustration that his ideas were being "ridiculed." Wang explained that the proposal emerged from discussions with long-term DPP supporters and elders who shared a similar view. He stressed that internal brainstorming sessions should be safe spaces for sharing ideas without fear of leaks or mockery. Wang also refuted the dramatic portrayal of Lai's reaction, asserting that the president did not exhibit surprise or displeasure, and that the leak had exaggerated the situation. The legislator reiterated his belief that the suggestion was made in good faith to strengthen Shen Po-yang's campaign strategy for the Taipei mayoral race.

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President Lai did not look displeased at all, and I find it very strange. The person who leaked the news described Lai's reaction in a more dramatic, exaggerated way, as if he was unhappy about something, but Lai was not unhappy at all. This must be investigated.