TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Authorities in Taiwan have uncovered a significant nationality issue involving five neighborhood representatives (里長) in northern Taiwan, the Ministry of the Interior (內政部) announced Thursday (Jan. 9). Officials discovered these individuals held Chinese nationality, prompting the ministry to instruct local offices to take action according to the law.
Four of the five chiefs have served for over a year, while one recently assumed office through a by-election. The ministry stated that if investigations confirm they have not renounced their Chinese citizenship, the township, city, or district offices will dismiss them as mandated by law. Cheng Ying-hung (鄭英弘), director of the Civil Affairs Department, emphasized that local governments must handle the matter per Article 20 of the "Nationality Act" (國籍法), which stipulates that citizens of the Republic of China who acquire foreign nationality cannot hold public office.
Minister of the Interior Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) noted that some local offices sought clarification on the "Household Registration Act" (戶籍法) and "Nationality Act" provisions, adding that the ministry has provided additional guidance. Cheng reiterated that if the individuals fail to present proof of renouncing their foreign nationality, local offices must act immediately. The situation underscores the importance of adherence to nationality laws in Taiwan's public service sector.