Shen Boyang Criticized for Canceling Canvassing Due to Rain, Calls Political Attack 'Very Bizarre'

(CNA, Taipei, June 9, Reporter Wang Yang-yu) DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Boyang canceled a market canvassing tour due to considerations of heavy rain, drawing criticism from a KMT councilor for allegedly not caring about the people of Daan. In an interview today, Shen explained that with the recent heavy downpours, it would be easy to inconvenience others if he were to canvass while people were carrying umbrellas into the market. He added that he hadn't expected such a political attack and found it "very bizarre."

Shen was originally scheduled to canvass at Chenggong Market in Taipei's Daan District this morning but canceled due to the torrential rain and for the safety of media covering the event. A KMT city councilor then questioned his concern for the people of Daan. Shen addressed the matter in a media interview at the Legislative Yuan today.

Shen pointed out that it is an indoor market, and when he has recently canvassed at markets, many media outlets have wanted to interview him. However, not wanting to disturb the vendors, he usually takes interviews outside the market where there is no shelter from the elements, causing the media to get wet. Furthermore, with the recent heavy rain, many people bring umbrellas inside, making it easy to cause inconvenience. That's why the decision was made to cancel.

Shen stated that he is concerned about the public and the media, and he never thought that canceling the canvassing event would lead to such a political attack, calling it "really very bizarre."

DPP caucus deputy secretary-general and Taipei City legislator Wu Pei-yi also responded to inquiries at a DPP caucus press conference, saying that during heavy rain, one usually hopes not to cause more trouble for the public and vendors. She said she doesn't understand why the councilor is making a big fuss, calling it "quite strange."

Additionally, the media asked Shen for his view on independent legislator Kao Chin Su-mei being indicted by prosecutors for alleged fraud involving assistant fees, with opposition legislators questioning it as political persecution.

Shen opined that he, of course, respects the final determination of the court and believes that as long as it involves issues of fraud, prosecutors will investigate regardless of party affiliation. (Editor: Zhai Si-jia) 1150609