Chiang Wan-an Nominates Chen Chi-mai for Premier Role; Chang Yi-li Questions: Have You Considered Ko Chih-en's Feelings?

Following Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's recent proposal to 'topple the cabinet,' on the 29th he appeared on a radio program and again named Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai as an appropriate candidate for the new Premier of the Executive Yuan. In response, Chang Yi-li, who previously served as spokesperson for Chen Chi-mai's campaign and as Director of Kaohsiung's Youth Bureau, and is now a council candidate for Zuonan District in Kaohsiung, stated on the 30th that Chiang Wan-an's repeated mentions of Chen Chi-mai raise questions about whether he is 'opportunely riding on Chen’s popularity' for a 2028 political strategy. Chang further questioned, 'Have you considered the feelings of Ko Chih-en, your party’s own mayoral candidate in Kaohsiung?'

Chang humorously remarked that if Chiang Wan-an is truly enthusiastic about speaking on behalf of Chen Chi-mai, he, as a former spokesperson, would be willing to serve as Chiang's 'mentor' and share his experience in public communication. However, he emphasized that while jokes aside, Chen Chi-mai has repeatedly stated that his top priority at this stage is ensuring food safety and fully advancing Kaohsiung's municipal development to achieve all policy goals within his term.

Chang pointed out that Chen Chi-mai reiterated in today's interview that politics is never short of 'empty talk without substance,' and what the people truly expect is for mayors to pragmatically fulfill their duties rather than constantly discussing political topics. He believes that regardless of being in power or opposition, what citizens care about most are municipal affairs such as food safety, infrastructure, and urban development.

Chang also mentioned that New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih recently stated, 'Do your job well, that’s what’s real,' emphasizing that the most important responsibility of local leaders is to deliver solid municipal governance and respond to public needs, rather than focusing on political maneuvering.

Chang concluded by urging that what Taipei citizens expect is a mayor who focuses on municipal affairs and works diligently. He hopes Chiang Wan-an will redirect his attention back to urban development, reduce political confrontations, and implement more citizen-impactful policies to meet the genuine expectations of the people.