Should Chiang Wan-an Take a DNA Test? Chang Jui-hsiung Says 'Unnecessary': DNA Can Verify Lineage, But Not Surname

Recent resurfacing of past interview clips featuring fourth-generation Chiang family members Chiang Yu-ching and Chiang Yu-po has reignited debate over whether Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an truly carries Chiang family bloodline, making it a renewed political topic. In response to public calls for Chiang Wan-an to undergo a DNA test, DPP Legislative Caucus Deputy Secretary-General Chang Jui-hsiung stated today (5th) that it is 'unnecessary.' However, he also acknowledged that Chiang Wan-an has indeed benefited politically to some extent from bearing the 'Chiang' surname since entering politics.

Should Chiang Wan-an take a DNA test?

Chang Jui-hsiung explained that DNA testing is typically used to confirm biological lineage, stating, 'Chiang Wan-an is fine—he is a descendant of the Chiang family.' The main controversy, he noted, lies in the fact that Chiang's father previously changed his surname from 'Chang' to 'Chiang,' raising suspicions that he may be 'benefiting from the Chiang family's legacy.'

Chang emphasized that while DNA can verify biological ties, it cannot determine a person's surname, and therefore there is no need to focus on DNA testing. 'DNA can verify lineage, but is it really necessary?' he questioned.

Chang Jui-hsiung: The surname 'Chiang' indeed brings political advantages

Nonetheless, Chang believes Chiang Wan-an should publicly clarify his relationship with the Chiang family and explain how much political advantage the surname 'Chiang' has brought to his career. He frankly stated, 'The fact that he bears the surname Chiang has indeed brought him certain political benefits.'

Regarding whether Chiang Wan-an should bear historical responsibility for the Chiang family's past, Chang believes it would be unfair to him. 'Chiang Wan-an would certainly feel innocent,' he said, adding, 'People naturally want to enjoy benefits but don't want to bear negative consequences.'

Chang Jui-hsiung points to Chiang Wan-an's 2028 prospects

Chang noted that compared to historical issues like Chiang family lineage or transitional justice, the general public cares more about Chiang Wan-an's policy performance as an elected mayor of Taipei. As Chiang's first term nears its end, Chang questioned, 'What notable achievements has Taipei seen?'—suggesting that such highlights remain unclear.

Chang also pointed to Chiang Wan-an's recent confrontations with the central government on food safety and no-confidence motions, noting that these moves have indeed boosted his public visibility and made him 'appear to have secured a ticket to the 2028 presidential race.' However, he reiterated that if Chiang were to run for president in the future, 'there's no need to emphasize whose descendant he is. Compared to lineage, the public cares more about a politician's actual performance.'