Controversy has arisen over the financial declarations of vice presidential candidates in the run-up to the 2024 election.
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The Central Election Commission (CEC) recently unveiled the financial declarations of presidential and vice-presidential candidates, bringing attention to Cynthia Wu (吳欣盈), the vice-presidential candidate for the Taiwan People's Party (TPP).
Media scrutiny emerged when it was revealed that Wu’s Belgian husband had no reported assets in his name, prompting questions about potential inaccuracies in Wu's declaration. The Act on Property Declaration by Public Servants mandates the inclusion of assets owned by a public official's spouse and minor children.
Speaking on the issue, TPP legislator Chiu Chen-yuan (邱臣遠) emphasized that all declaration processes and related paperwork, including those for candidacy registration, are being undertaken systematically and reiterated that adherence to legal regulations is paramount. Meanwhile, KMT legislator Lai Shyh-bao (賴士葆) suggested that Wu may not be aware of her husband's financial details and if there is inaccurate reporting, candidates will receive a fine.
The financial disclosures of all three vice-presidential candidates have drawn some attention. Wu reported savings of more than NT$2.5 million and jewelry valued at NT$8 million, along with property in the UK. Meanwhile, KMT candidate Chao Shao-kang (趙少康) revealed savings approaching NT$80 million, coupled with liabilities of more than NT$41 million. DPP candidate Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) declared seven properties in Zhonghe, with an additional three properties and a piece of land entrusted to a trust.
Any potential issues with the accuracy of Wu’s financial declarations may only be clarified upon her return to Taiwan.