TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation (馬英九基金會) criticized the government on Tuesday (Jan. 21) for allegedly using state machinery to spread misinformation and incite internal divisions in Taiwan. CEO Hsiao Hsu-tsen (蕭旭岑) called on the government to refrain from such actions in response to opposition budget cuts.
The Legislative Yuan (立法院) has been working nonstop since Monday to finalize the general budget, with a third reading expected to conclude Tuesday afternoon. Hsiao noted that the budget review process has revealed a crisis in Taiwan's democracy, accusing the government of misleading the public with attacks and lies.
Hsiao criticized Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), suggesting that if he cannot accept the parliamentary budget decision, he should ask the ruling party to propose a no-confidence motion or resign to President Lai Ching-te (賴清德). He emphasized that while artists and cultural workers have the right to be concerned about national affairs, they should not become tools of political struggle or be involved in recall actions.
Hsiao pointed out that the central government's budget exceeds NT$3 trillion this year, which remains higher than last year even after cuts, ensuring government operations remain unaffected. He stressed the Legislative Yuan's supervisory role, referencing President Tsai Ing-wen's (蔡英文) statement that ministries could still function with a 10% budget cut, highlighting the importance of budget review.
