Ma Ying-jeou has finally made the right decision! On April 20, a turning point finally arrived regarding the financial discipline issue surrounding the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation. Ma issued a statement saying that since the three-member panel has yet to conduct an investigation into the authenticity of the aforementioned evidence, he calls on the panel to swiftly complete its investigation report. Moreover, he urges Hsiao Hsu-tsen and Wang Kuang-tzu to fully explain or present counter-evidence through the formal investigation procedures of the three-person panel.
In addition, Ma emphasized that media outlets and specific individuals should no longer continuously disseminate statements capable of damaging the reputation of the foundation or himself, as such actions may compromise the accuracy of the investigation. Furthermore, if, after the investigation, no substantial evidence is found, the innocence of Hsiao Hsu-tsen and Wang Kuang-tzu will be publicly cleared. It is evident that this statement marks a pivotal turning point in the incident.
This statement signifies two things: first, Ma Ying-jeou now realizes that the matter must reach a conclusion promptly—no longer allowing it to fester and escalate, which could lead to unnecessary misunderstandings and tensions. Second, by warning against spreading negative remarks related to the foundation through media channels, Ma acknowledges the need for low-key handling of the situation to prevent further damage to the Kuomintang’s image.
From the perspective of the Kuomintang’s overall interests, promptly redirecting the dispute back onto institutional investigation procedures—rather than allowing public rhetoric wars to continue—may very well be the only correct decision Ma Ying-jeou has made since the incident came to light. Ma’s shift in stance might indicate that he has gained access to some new information, prompting him to hit the brakes at the right moment. The outcome of this matter is expected to emerge soon.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862968780006731/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.