Ministry of Interior Urges Verification of Political Donation Accounts to Prevent Fraud Ahead of Local Elections

CNA reporter Lai Yu-chen, Taipei, May 22. With local elections approaching, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) reminded the public today to verify official 'political donation accounts' on the Control Yuan's Sunshine Law website before making any donations to avoid fraud. The MOI also emphasized the importance of checking donation periods and eligibility to avoid legal penalties. The 'nine-in-one' elections will be held on November 28. The MOI outlined four key regulations: First, the 'period' for donations varies by office, starting from April 25 for major candidates and August 20 for local village heads, ending one day before the vote. Second, regarding 'eligibility,' individuals under 20, companies with major government contracts, businesses with accumulated losses, and foreign nationals (including those from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau) are prohibited from donating. Third, there are 'limits': 100,000 TWD per candidate per year, and 300,000 TWD total for multiple candidates. This includes costs for fundraising dinners and campaign merchandise. Fourth, donations must be made in the donor's name, and amounts over 100,000 TWD must be paid via check or bank transfer.