Taipei City Councilor Chen Chung-wen (陳重文) is under investigation for alleged bribery related to his father’s unopposed election as chairperson of the Beitou Farmers’ Association. Chen, a member of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), along with his wife, father, and several association board directors, were questioned by authorities regarding suspected election manipulation.
Details of the Investigation
- Election Context: Chen’s father, Chen Ssu-tsung (陳思宗), was elected unopposed as chairperson of the Beitou Farmers’ Association on March 7, 2025, during the nationwide farmers’ association elections.
- Allegations: Prosecutors received a tip-off alleging that Chen and his father offered bribes, including association positions, to discourage potential candidates from running for the chairperson position.
- Legal Actions: Investigators searched nine locations, including the homes of Chen and his father. Chen was released on NT$200,000 bail, while his father posted NT$100,000 bail. Chen’s wife, Pai Hui-ping (白惠萍), and five other directors were released without conditions.
Background on Farmers’ Associations
Taiwan’s farmers’ associations operate under the Farmers Association Act, providing various services, including banking, to members who are not necessarily farmers. The Act prohibits individuals convicted of corruption or organized crime from holding official positions.
In 2025, 287 of Taiwan’s more than 300 farmers’ associations held elections, with a voter turnout of 47.93% among 791,881 eligible voters.
Previous Corruption Conviction
Chen is also appealing a nine-year prison sentence from a separate corruption case. In December 2024, the Taipei District Court found Chen guilty of illegally obtaining over NT$3.7 million through a city government procurement project. He used his position to pressure the Taipei Department of Social Welfare to award a contract to a consortium linked to him, which then subcontracted the project to a company he co-founded. His wife, Pai, received a one-year suspended sentence for forgery and violations of the Company Act.
FAQs
What are the specific allegations against Chen Chung-wen?
Chen is accused of offering bribes and association positions to deter potential candidates from running for the chairperson position in the Beitou Farmers’ Association election.
What is the status of Chen’s previous corruption conviction?
Chen is appealing a nine-year prison sentence related to a separate corruption case involving a city government procurement project.
What is the role of farmers’ associations in Taiwan?
Farmers’ associations provide various services, including banking, to members and are governed by the Farmers Association Act, which prohibits individuals with corruption convictions from holding official positions.
