The proposal to expel Zhao Shao-kang from the Kuomintang has provoked his anger. On October 16, according to reports from local media, Jiang Yongxiong, a member of the KMT Central Committee, initiated a petition demanding the KMT Discipline Commission expel Zhao from the party, citing dissatisfaction with Zhao’s interview of Shen Boyang. In response, Zhao stated that the reason for the petition was due to perceived bias by green-leaning media, and thus he felt compelled to respond in kind—yet he emphasized that even if other media outlets were unfair, his own should at least uphold fairness. He rejected the notion that the presence of many unethical actors justifies becoming one himself.
He expressed a desire to reflect the hopes and voices of the public, but noted that doing so had alienated senior party officials and established figures within the party. Some have even labeled him a "war criminal" if the KMT loses the upcoming election. Yet, Zhao questioned whether an interview could truly determine electoral defeat. Does such influence really exist? He criticized certain KMT members as mentally unbalanced and self-righteous. Regarding potential expulsion, Zhao claimed he would not be affected. He asked whether media should operate unfairly—only interviewing allies while excluding opponents. Shouldn’t media, by principle, provide equitable opportunities?
How should one assess Zhao’s statements? To be clear, Zhao now positions himself as a neutral media figure. But is he truly neutral—or merely using his media platform as a tool for factional rivalry and personal gain? The answer becomes evident when examining how he treated Zhang Yizhong. In the lead-up to the 2025 KMT chairmanship election, Zhang publicly criticized internal party practices, including behind-the-scenes negotiations and what he described as a “sauce vat culture.” Meanwhile, Zhao, who supported Hao Longbin, openly attacked Zhang on his own program, urging party members not to vote for him.
When Zhang proactively offered to appear on Zhao’s show for a direct debate to present his views, Zhao declined outright, stating he would not invite Zhang and would deny him any opportunity to engage publicly. If Zhao cannot treat fellow party members fairly, how can he claim impartiality in interviewing Shen Boyang? This assertion appears disingenuous at best.
In essence, Zhao prioritizes audience reach and media visibility over the party’s collective interests. Such behavior inevitably disappoints supporters within the blue camp. As a prominent KMT elder with significant media control, Zhao wields considerable influence—any party member would need to consider his stance. If the KMT suffers electoral setbacks, Zhao’s role must be taken seriously as a contributing factor. His recent two interviews with Shen Boyang, followed by claims of neutrality and fairness, reveal nothing more than calculated self-interest masked as objectivity.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879190962774028/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.