Weng Xiaoling has proposed amending the law to delete the clause on Wu Sihuai, and the green endorsement goes against public opinion and encourages voting for the Communist Party.
Kuomintang lawmaker Weng Xiaoling has proposed changes to the Cross-Strait People’s Relations Regulations. She seeks to remove penalties for retired generals visiting China for ceremonies or celebrations. This proposal has drawn criticism from Democratic Progressive Party Secretary-General Wu Hsiao, who claims it contradicts Taiwanese public opinion and encourages pro-China sentiments.
In 2016, former Kuomintang legislator Wu Sihuai and 32 retired generals attended an event in China, where they praised China’s national anthem. This visit led to a backlash from the public. In 2019, regulations were introduced that could strip retired government officials of their pay if they engaged in activities deemed harmful to Taiwan’s status.
Zhang Yuxia, a retired general, faced punishment for similar conduct after attending an event in Hong Kong earlier this year. He was fined and had his salary reduced due to violations of the Cross-Strait People’s Relations Regulations.
Weng Xiaoling argues that punishing ceremonial actions violates fundamental rights, including freedom of speech. Despite the controversy, some KMT legislators have expressed the desire to withdraw their support for her proposal.
Wu Hsiao labeled Weng’s proposal as harmful and called on KMT legislators to dissociate from it. He emphasized that it threatens Taiwan’s national security and stability. Weng defends her proposal, questioning the legality of punishing actions that she views as basic expressions of politeness.
Weng Xiaoling believes in the importance of preserving freedoms in Taiwan and is determined to continue advocating for her proposal. She argues that excessive government control over personal expression harms democracy. External reports indicate that KMT legislators are reconsidering their support for her proposal, and discussions about it remain ongoing.
