Lai, Ko clash on eligibility of China-born Xu Chunying

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan People's Party (TPP) presidential hopeful Ko Wen-je announced his plan on Tuesday (Oct. 31) to subject Xu Chunying to media scrutiny while accusing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of double standards.

In response to media inquiries, Ko said that Xu must have the ability to pass the test and reiterated that he wouldn't show favoritism to anyone. "Everyone has the right to defend themselves," Ko added, promising to arrange an interview for Xu to explain the situation to the public personally.

On the same morning, Vice President and DPP hopeful Lai Ching-te asked Ko to address the concerns and not let Xu face the issue alone. "Chairman Ko has the responsibility to explain the decision, rather than taking this matter lightly and leaving Xu Chunying to face it alone," Lai said.

The recent controversy over the TPP potentially enlisting China-born Xu as one of its legislators-at-large has sparked concerns among the public, with many raising doubts about Xu's dual citizenship.

However, when asked whether Xu has renounced her Chinese citizenship, Ko didn't provide a direct answer. Instead, he questioned the DPP's double standards, pointing out that Chao Tien-lin, the DPP legislator who had affairs with a Chinese national, was also a member of the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee.

This comparison further fuels the ongoing controversy and debate surrounding the eligibility of individuals with connections to China to participate in the election, intensifying public concerns and discussions on this matter.