No Retirement Pension Received! Former Beiyi Girls' High Teacher Qu Gui-zhi Shocks: 'They're Trying to Intimidate Me'

Former Beiyi Girls' High Chinese teacher Qu Gui-zhi, previously criticized for statements such as 'Taiwanese are Chinese,' has once again become the center of public controversy. Hu Chuan-an, assistant professor at the Chinese Department of Central University, previously posted strong criticism, arguing that after formally completing her retirement procedures, Qu is now in a 'secure position' and, while receiving retirement benefits from Taiwan, frequently gives interviews to Chinese media. He questioned whether her actions constitute cooperation with China's united front propaganda activities.

The controversy intensified after Qu gave interviews to Chinese media post-retirement, with scholars criticizing her for receiving a Taiwanese pension while allegedly supporting Chinese propaganda. In response to the overwhelming criticism, Qu directly responded during an interview yesterday (12th). She countered by asking, 'Is there any law that prohibits current, former, or retired teachers from giving interviews to media of any country?' and insisted that her interview activities do not violate any existing laws.

During the interview, the host specifically asked whether her retirement pension could be used as a 'pressure tool' by external groups or relevant agencies. Qu frankly stated, 'I feel they are trying to intimidate me.'

Qu explained that after officially retiring on August 1, she went to the bank that day to update her passbook, expecting to confirm whether her monthly retirement pension had been credited. However, she found no record of the payment, leaving her deeply confused. She noted that during her time as a public servant, her salary had always been paid punctually on the first of each month, so she expected her post-retirement monthly pension to be credited around the same time. After the incident, although she asked colleagues to confirm the disbursement schedule, she did not immediately contact the relevant authorities to clarify the specific reason for the missing payment, stating that she would need to verify the correct disbursement date later.

In addition to the pension controversy, Qu also discussed the controversy surrounding her public statements before retirement. She mentioned that her frequent public commentary on current affairs had made her a social focal point, causing the school to face immense pressure from various sectors. She speculated that the Taipei City Education Bureau might also have been under similar public pressure; otherwise, the principal would not have specifically relayed the bureau's request for her to stop appearing on TV programs.

Qu admitted that while she believed such a request lacked legal basis, the principal had frankly asked her to consider the emotional burden and stress on the school's administrative staff dealing with the fallout. After reflection, she decided, 'I cannot exercise my freedom of speech at the expense of others' well-being.' Despite finding the request unreasonable, she chose to compromise to protect her colleagues and promised not to make public statements before her official retirement on July 31.