Media commentator Chen Hui-wen has issued a sharp warning to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), arguing that fielding legislator Shen Bo-yang as a candidate for the 2026 Taipei mayoral race could lead to a significant political disaster. Chen urged President and DPP Chairman Lai Ching-te to reconsider the selection process to avoid turning the election into a “joke.”
Lack of Municipal Experience and Local Engagement
Chen pointed out that while Shen Bo-yang claims to be a “descendant of a big landowner in Wufenpu,” he has not historically engaged with Taipei’s municipal affairs. According to Chen, Shen is currently attempting to “catch up” by attending Mazu parade events, a move Chen suggests is an attempt to mask obvious shortcomings.
Further criticizing Shen’s record, Chen asserted that after two years as a legislator, Shen has failed to recognize that he ranks last among the 113 members of the Legislative Yuan. Chen suggested that the delay in announcing a Taipei mayoral candidate is a sign that Lai Ching-te is reluctant to nominate Shen but struggles to find an alternative.
The “One Corpse, Five Lives” Precedent
Drawing a parallel to the 2022 Hsinchu mayoral race, Chen recalled how former legislator Gao Jia-yu warned that continued party support for Lin Chih-chien during his thesis scandal would result in “one corpse, five lives.” Chen questioned how many “lives” would be lost if the party proceeded with Shen Bo-yang’s candidacy.
Chen noted that the Kuomintang (KMT) currently maintains an advantage in local elections. He contrasted the current situation with the era of former President Tsai Ing-wen, who firmly supported Lin Chih-chien’s innocence, questioning if Lai Ching-te would similarly order the party to support “Black Bear.”
Potential Policy Impacts and Broader Risks
Chen argued that a potential victory for Shen Bo-yang could lead to the cancellation of the Twin City Forum for cross-strait exchange and the cessation of social welfare subsidies in Taipei. This claim stems from Shen’s previous assertions that the 10,000 TWD general distribution was a “CCP conspiracy” and a sign of a “poor Taiwan.”
Expressing disbelief that the DPP’s central government has “fallen to this” after ten years of ruling, Chen warned that nominating Shen could negatively impact mayoral elections in other regions. He questioned whether the party intended to use “fighting China, protecting Taiwan” as a marketing tool for a local municipal election.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Chen Hui-wen believe Shen Bo-yang is an unsuitable candidate for Taipei Mayor?
Chen argues that Shen lacks experience in municipal affairs, is currently only attending local events to “catch up,” and ranks last among the 113 legislators in the Legislative Yuan.
What historical event did Chen use to warn the DPP?
Chen referenced the 2022 thesis scandal involving former Hsinchu Mayor Lin Chih-chien and the subsequent warning from Gao Jia-yu that party support for Lin would lead to “one corpse, five lives.”
What specific policy changes does Chen predict if Shen Bo-yang were elected?
Chen suggests that the Twin City Forum for cross-strait exchange would be cancelled and social welfare subsidies would stop, citing Shen’s past comments that the 10,000 TWD distribution was a “CCP conspiracy.”
Do you believe a candidate’s specialized national security expertise is more or less critical than local governance experience when running for a major city’s mayor?
