Taiwan bars retired top officials from ‘political events’ backed by Beijing
- Opponents say legislation is a ploy to improve the ruling DPP’s chances in the island’s presidential election
Taiwan’s legislature has approved a bill that restricts retired senior officials from attending political events organised by Beijing in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, a move critics say is an abuse of human rights.
The passage of the bill on Wednesday is the latest in a series of legislative efforts that advocates said was meant to stem Beijing’s influence and safeguard the security of the self-ruled island.
But critics said the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party government was using the bill to improve its prospects in January’s presidential election.
Under the legislation, officials retired from positions at or above the level of a deputy minister or major general will be barred for life from attending political events and gatherings organised by Beijing either on or outside the mainland.
Barred activities include celebratory events and political rallies held by the mainland authorities, its military and political parties. Saluting, chanting slogans or voicing anthems in front of flags and emblems representing Beijing’s sovereignty are also strictly prohibited.
“Violators will be stripped of their pensions or slapped with up to NT$10 million (US$322,300) in fines,” according to revisions to a law governing relations between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Those who breach the law could also lose medals, citations, prizes, licences, and certificates conferred on them.