Tsai Ing-Wen

Paraguay Presidential Visit Repeats a Pattern Previously Seen with Honduras

Brian Hioe
A recent visit to Taiwan last week by Paraguayan president Mario Abdo Benitez saw Abdo emphasize that breaking ties between Taiwan and Paraguay would be a “historic mistake”. Namely, Paraguay is one of Taiwan’s 14 remaining diplomatic allies, and it's only South American ally. However, the Abdo visit takes place ahead of Paraguayan presidential elections in April, leading to questions about whether Abdo’s successor will switch recognition to China...
EnglishFebruary 2023Politics6 min read

Cabinet Spokesperson Scandal Potentially Affects Future DPP Outlook

Brian Hioe
Cabinet spokesperson Chen Tsung-yen has resigned after reports that he traded his political influence for sexual favors during his time as head of the Tainan City Bureau of Civil Affairs. Chen had only held his post as cabinet spokesperson for 18 days, as a result of which he has been termed the shortest cabinet spokesperson in history. Despite resigning, Chen has denied wrongdoing. Chen’s resignation has since been approved by Premier Chen Chien-jen...
EnglishFebruary 2023Politics5 min read

Tax Rebate Delayed Until At Least April, Following Opposition Pushback

Brian Hioe
Political contention continues over the Tsai administration’s proposed 6,000 NT tax refund. Namely, the proposal has come under fire from opposition lawmakers. Although it was originally expected that the tax fund would be issued as early as next month or possibly in March, because of the failure of the proposed refund to clear the legislature, now the refund is not expected until April...
EnglishJanuary 2023Politics5 min read