TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a press conference on Wednesday (Nov. 29), Chen Binhua, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), denied allegations by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) that Beijing is interfering in Taiwan's elections. Chen branded the DPP's claims as baseless rumors.
Accusing the DPP of fabricating these rumors to smear mainland China's policies, Chen asserted that the ruling party in Taiwan was causing disruption to mislead the electorate.
The accusations come as Taiwan gears up for the 2024 presidential election amid repeated warnings from the island's national security agencies about interference from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Taiwan's national security authorities have pointed out CCP attempts to sway public opinion through the use of short video platforms and websites, spread false information, and engage in nuanced cognitive warfare. In particular, members of the "Union of Chinese Nationalists" in Kaohsiung were recently accused of accepting funds from the TAO to travel to mainland China for political activities.
Kaohsiung's Ciaotou District Prosecutors Office has summoned 22 members of this association for investigation. The association is suspected of organizing a trip to China for about 140 members, promoting specific political views and pan-blue support during their travels.
Individuals identified by surnames Cheng and Ye are among those called by the prosecutors for allegedly violating Taiwan's Anti-Infiltration Act and Public Officials Election and Recall Act. They have been released on bail with travel restrictions pending further investigation.