Chen Shui-bian Reflects on Political Career's Toll on Family, Praises Son Chen Cheng for Tougher Political Journey

Following recent divorce rumors surrounding former President Chen Shui-bian's eldest daughter, Chen Hsiao-yu, former Kaohsiung City Councilor Chen Cheng immediately posted support for his sister on the social platform Threads. In response, Chen Shui-bian published a post titled 'Cheng, thank you for always standing in front of the family,' publicly praising Chen Cheng for consistently being the first to support the family and shielding him from public criticism.

Reflecting on his years in prison, Chen Shui-bian noted that it was Chen Cheng who sustained the Ketagalan Foundation and Ketagalan School—organizations he founded—ensuring their survival to this day. Chen Cheng also served as the family's primary spokesperson, allowing their 'uncontainable voice' to be heard by the public. Moreover, it was Chen Cheng who represented the family in relentless advocacy, enabling Chen Shui-bian to secure escorted medical treatment and ongoing medical parole.

Speaking about past political storms, Chen Shui-bian lamented that his obsession with politics and elections led to persecution that dragged his entire family into turmoil. He expressed regret not only toward his daughter but also toward his daughter-in-law. Chen specifically mentioned that his political actions negatively impacted Chen Cheng in three elections—twice winning by the highest vote count, yet being removed from office after only a few months each time. Ultimately, Chen Cheng had his political rights permanently revoked. Chen Shui-bian frankly admitted that his son's political journey has been far more arduous than his own.

In a heartfelt and humorous conclusion, Chen Shui-bian reminded Chen Cheng—soon to turn fifty—that he should pay more attention to his health and eat more nutritiously. He joked that a friend had remarked Chen Cheng now looks about the same age as him, urging his son to control his recent weight gain to avoid worrying his wife, Huang Jui-ching. Chen Shui-bian also promised to reduce his smartphone use to protect his eyes, suggesting they both look out for each other's well-being.

More exclusive reports from Feng Media: · Behind the Scenes: Chen Hsiao-yu's Divorce—Chao Chien-ming Never Reached Out to Chen Shui-bian, Locals Had Long Suspected Trouble · Chen Hsiao-yu Confirms Divorce via Google 1-Star Review Accusing Chao Chien-ming of Affairs—She Confirms: 'I Wrote It' · Chen Hsiao-yu Announces Divorce Not with a Statement but a 1-Star Review—Netizens Praise: 'Truly the Fearless One Who Once Said, Who Didn’t Take My Father’s Money'