Taichung City Government Secretariat Labor Procurement Case Involves Leak, Bipartisan Councilors Raise Concerns

Central News Agency reporter Hao Hsueh-ching, Taichung, August 12 — The Taichung District Prosecutors Office conducted a search related to a labor procurement case involving the Taichung City Government Secretariat, sparking public attention. Councilors from both the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), including Chu Nuan-ying, Chen Shu-hua, Chen Ya-hui, Chang Fen-yu, Chen Yu-jung, Hsiao Lung-tse, Hsieh Chia-i, and Chou Yung-hung, raised concerns during the municipal council’s questioning on civil affairs.

Chu Nuan-ying emphasized that in criminal investigations, evidence preservation and collection are crucial for clarifying facts. She questioned why a case from 2020 (109th year of ROC) was only searched in 2026 (115th year), asking whether new evidence had recently emerged, whether there had been investigative progress, or whether there were other legal considerations.

Chou Yung-hung noted that three of the four individuals named as defendants are still employed by the Taichung City Government, with two holding civil servant status. He pointed out that Yen Nai-lun, currently serving as a city government counselor, holds a position requiring mayoral appointment, and thus the city government should clarify whether he remains suitable for the role.

Chu Nuan-ying stressed that the case remains under investigation and has not yet been adjudicated. Upholding the principle of presumption of innocence, she urged political figures not to prejudge the outcome. She called on judicial authorities to act impartially, warning against letting political stances precede justice or allowing the judiciary to become a tool in political battles.

Chen Shu-hua highlighted that one of the suspects, a former Taipei City Government spokesperson, had previously worked at a Chinese united front organization and also served as a close aide to Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen. She criticized Lu for failing to explain the official’s involvement in the procurement leak, instead deflecting blame to others. Chen demanded that the city’s anti-corruption office investigate whether the municipal government has been infiltrated, whether personnel have been recruited, or whether national security has been compromised.

Secretary-General Hsieh Chia-cheng expressed gratitude for the councilors’ concern for frontline civil servants, acknowledging the pressure staff have endured. She affirmed that despite political speculation or investigative conjecture, the secretariat’s staff remain committed to their duties. The office will continue to support its personnel to ensure they can work securely and carry out their responsibilities normally. (Edited by Lin Shu-hui) 1150812