Taiwanese parties clash over fund cuts, vulnerable groups amid flood crisis

A political dispute has erupted in Taiwan over proposed cuts to the National Affairs Fund, with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) accusing the opposition of sacrificing vulnerable populations for political advantage. The controversy comes as southern Taiwan grapples with severe flooding.

The campaign office for Wu Tsung-hsien, a Kuomintang (KMT) candidate for Yilan County Magistrate, fired back at the DPP's criticism. Spokesperson Cheng Hao-wen stated that the DPP is deliberately manipulating vulnerable groups for electoral gain during a time when Taiwanese citizens are suffering from natural disasters. He expressed regret that the party is prioritizing election tactics over addressing the ongoing flood crisis.

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The DPP is deliberately manipulating vulnerable groups for electoral gain during a time when Taiwanese citizens are suffering from natural disasters.

Cheng also raised concerns about the current preferential procurement system, which mandates that government agencies prioritize purchasing goods and services from institutions supporting disabled individuals. He pointed out that approximately 40% of these procurement obligations are currently failing to be met, resulting in an estimated NT$700 million to NT$1 billion in unfulfilled contracts. Cheng questioned whether Lin Kuo-chang, an advisor to the Executive Yuan, should first focus on ensuring the central government strictly implements these existing procurement requirements before advocating for broader public purchasing.

Wu's campaign office emphasized Wu's long-standing commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, citing his past actions and achievements. If elected County Magistrate, Wu plans to enhance support for disabled individuals through systemic reforms. This includes revising Yilan County's regulations for preferential procurement to ensure better implementation and accountability within county government agencies.

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External leadership is not frightening; what is frightening is external leadership that disrespects professionalism.