Criticizes Li Yang's Reforms, Apologizes, Lottery Dealers Association Chairman Announces Withdrawal from Operations

Taipei, July 8 (CNA) He Yu-chi, chairman of the Sports Lottery Dealers Commercial Association, who recently posted on Facebook criticizing Sports Minister Li Yang's sports reforms, has now posted a lengthy message apologizing to Li Yang and announcing his withdrawal from sports lottery operations by surrendering his license on September 1.

On July 6, He Yu-chi posted on Facebook criticizing Li Yang, who has been in office for nearly a year, for failing to deliver any tangible results that resonate with the public. He even suggested that Li Yang's approach to sports reform was flawed, emphasizing that "reform is never a dichotomy; it's not about labeling everyone from the old system as vested interests, nor is it about believing that a tough attitude alone guarantees successful reform."

This post sparked widespread discussion, with many netizens joining the fray, arguing that "Li Yang must have done something right for these people to be so agitated." Subsequent comments flooded He Yu-chi's Facebook page.

After two days of fermentation, the Chinese Taipei Sports Lottery Dealers Commercial Association issued a four-point statement today: "Regarding the recent remarks by our association's chairman, He Yu-chi, concerning the rights and interests of sports lottery dealers and the new sports department's system, due to imprecise wording, misunderstandings have arisen in society, and it may have caused trouble for Sports Minister Li Yang and all parties concerned about the development of Taiwanese sports. He Yu-chi hereby expresses his sincerest apologies."

The statement expressed that Li Yang, as an Olympic gold medalist, has brought glory to the nation for many years, and the association has always given its highest respect and affirmation to his outstanding contributions to Taiwanese sports and his determination to promote reform.

The statement pointed out that the association's recent suggestions were initially intended to hope that the newly established Ministry of Sports would widely incorporate grassroots voices, deepen institutional reforms, and promote the sound development of the sports lottery system, grassroots sports, and the sports industry. Public policy should allow for different voices and be subject to social supervision.

Finally, the statement emphasized that He Yu-chi has deeply reflected and re-evaluated his future life direction. He will surrender his sports lottery dealer license in accordance with relevant regulations on September 1, 2026, officially withdrawing from sports lottery operations and no longer engaging in any industry related to sports lotteries. (Editor: Lung Po-an) 1150708

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