TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Three prominent government officials resigned Friday (Aug. 22), creating a significant cabinet reshuffle that rocked Taiwan's political landscape. Benson Yeh (葉丙成), deputy minister of education, J.W. Kuo (郭智輝), minister of economic affairs, and Yan-Nan Huang (黃彥男), minister of digital development, each stepped down from their positions. The resignations cited various personal and professional reasons, marking a notable shake-up in Taiwan's cabinet, the island's executive branch.
Yeh resigned following an investigation into a leaked privacy case involving a sexual equality complaint at his ministry. Although he did not violate gender laws, Yeh decided to take responsibility by stepping down from his position. Huang's resignation stems from his secondment at Academia Sinica, Taiwan's premier research institution, approaching its end on Aug. 31, 2025, prompting him to reconsider his career trajectory and future professional commitments.
Kuo submitted his resignation to President Lai Ching-Te (賴清德) and Premier Cho Jung-Tai (卓榮泰) in the evening, citing health concerns. Kuo emphasized the demanding nature of his role, stating that his body reminded him that it was time to pass on the responsibility to someone who could fully commit to it. Premier Cho respected Kuo's decision, with spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) expressing hope for future collaboration with Kuo to boost Taiwan's economy.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounds Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-Yuan (邱泰源) as the next potential resignation, with Deputy Minister Lu Jen-der (呂建德) rumored as a possible successor. Lu denied these rumors Friday (Aug. 22), stating he had not received any inquiries regarding the position. The ongoing speculation reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding Taiwan's cabinet stability following the triple resignations that shook the government's executive leadership structure. ◼
