TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Presidential Office in Taiwan has expressed its commitment to ensuring proper health care for former President Chen Shui-bian, according to spokesperson Olivia Lin Tuesday (May 7). The statement comes amid heightened attention surrounding the media reporting President Tsai Ing-wen's potential pardon of Chen.
Chen, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his involvement in major corruption cases, was released on medical parole in 2015 after serving more than six years due to dementia and other health issues. His frequent public appearances during his parole, including attending court for his daughter Chen Hsing-yu's lawsuit, have sparked criticism, with some arguing that his actions undermine judicial dignity and exacerbate social divisions.
Media reports suggest that Tsai has decided to pardon Chen before her term ends on May 20. The current discussion focuses on the four major corruption cases in which Chen was convicted. According to Article 40 of the Constitution, Tsai has the presidential power to pardon Chen. Under Article 3 of the Indemnity Act, she can grant a reprieve to those sentenced to punishment.
If Chen is granted a reprieve, he will remain a convicted individual. Still, he will not have to serve the remainder of his sentence. If Chen insists on his innocence, he can request a judicial review from the Constitutional Court or ask the Prosecutor General to appeal to the Supreme Court.
Another possibility is to fully pardon Chen, absolving him of all crimes and punishments. However, this would create a ludicrous situation of "corruption without guilt."