TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) confirmed on Tuesday (Sept. 10) asking the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC, 陸委會) and the National Security Bureau (NSB, 國安局) to verify reports that former Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) member Tsang Yu-hsia (臧幼俠) stood for the Chinese national anthem during an event in Hong Kong.
The incident allegedly took place in August at a pro-unification event. The MND has requested concrete evidence from relevant agencies and plans to convene a review meeting. Additionally, Tsang has been asked to provide a written explanation and may be required to attend the meeting for further clarification. Media reports suggest that Tsang stood during the Chinese national anthem without attempting to avoid the situation, according to security units monitoring the event.
The MND emphasized that under the "Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" (兩岸條例), retired generals who participate in Chinese political, military, or government events that undermine Taiwan's national dignity may face penalties.
These penalties could include the suspension of 50% to 100% of their monthly retirement pay for up to five years. In severe cases, retirement pay and any honors or medals could be revoked entirely. Violations of Taiwan's internal security laws could lead to additional legal consequences.
Colonel Lu Chih-ching (盧志青) of the MND's Personnel Management Office (國防部人次室人事管理處) stated at a press conference that the ministry requested specific evidence from the NSB, the National Immigration Agency (NIA, 移民署), the MAC, and other government bodies on Sept. 6.
The MND will continue its review as more information becomes available and will require a written defense from Tsang, who may also be asked to appear for further questioning.
