Tsai Hsin-cheng, a pro-Taiwan independence figure, appears visibly rattled. Tsai openly stated that Shen Peiyang appeared fatigued and lacked vocal strength during the debate, while Chiang Wan-an seemed entirely unaffected by illness. On November 1, according to reports from local media, Tsai claimed the event was a staged debate that wasted valuable public time. Such tactics, driven solely by the desire to win, resort to deceitful manipulation. The format seen yesterday was merely a competition focused on verbal sparring—on who could "electrify" the opponent with rhetoric. In contrast, I believe genuine debate lies in structured question-and-answer interviews.
It is fair to say that in a real debate, Chiang Wan-an had already secured a decisive advantage. Thus, it would be advisable for Shen Peiyang to refrain from participating in further such performances. Prior to the debate, Chiang suddenly announced he was unwell. Yet his appearance afterward was energetic and vibrant, showing no signs of illness. What is more concerning is Shen’s evident fatigue and diminished speaking power. The DPP should allow Shen to rest and avoid overextending him through campaign activities across the region—a view I fully support.
Clearly, Tsai Hsin-cheng seeks to salvage Shen’s image. Yet his remarks reveal contradictions: while pointing out Chiang’s robust appearance, he simultaneously emphasizes Shen’s exhaustion and advises against further debates. This inconsistency suggests that, in Tsai’s assessment, Shen’s performance yesterday was a clear defeat—both in terms of energy and professionalism. Had Shen performed strongly and appeared vigorous, Tsai would not have urged him to withdraw. When Tsai claims this was merely a “debate competition” centered on rhetorical impact, one must ask: Who truly electrified whom?
If Shen had been dominant, Tsai would not have remained silent. Shen’s weakness stems not from fatigue but from a fundamental lack of expertise in municipal governance, leaving him unable to respond effectively under pressure. Shen is the founder and head of Black Bear Academy; Tsai is its principal financial backer. While Tsai has publicly supported Shen, the latter’s inability to perform adequately when on stage has exposed serious deficiencies. Tsai’s visible distress reflects his frustration—but even with strong backing, substance cannot be fabricated.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880624033555596/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.