In a recent incident in Taiwan, the lead petitioner for the recall of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Li Kun-cheng, Song Jian-liang, has sparked controversy by allegedly using false signatures and wearing a Nazi armband during interrogation. This behavior has drawn condemnation from the German Representative Office in Taiwan and the Israeli representative. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China has also condemned the act, stating that it damages Taiwan’s image.
The Central Election Commission of the Republic of China has pointed out that 41 recall cases involve suspected forgery or deceased signatories, all of which have been reported. DPP legislator Li Kun-cheng faces a recall proposal, with Song Jian-liang, the lead petitioner of the Blue Recall Youth Front, being accused of falsifying signatures. Song Jian-liang was seen wearing a Nazi symbol armband on his arm, making a Nazi salute gesture with his hand, and holding Hitler’s work upon entering the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office for questioning. After today’s interrogation, the prosecution ordered him to post bail of NT$80,000.
The German Representative Office in Taiwan expressed shock in an official statement on Facebook, condemning the act as a political move involving the use of Nazi symbols and uniform. They emphasized that Nazism symbolizes contempt and persecution towards humanity, referencing Song Jian-liang’s behavior on April 15 as shameless and intentional. They unequivocally denounced his display of Nazi gestures and symbols.
The German Representative Office further stated that during the reign of the Nazi party, millions of lives in Europe were threatened, persecuted, and harmed. The Holocaust stands as one of the darkest chapters in human history, and using such symbols is strongly condemned. They appreciated the concern from Taiwanese society and reiterated their condemnation of the use of Nazi symbols.
Israeli Representative, Maya Guo, expressed deep concern and strong condemnation for the recent public display of Nazi symbols and Hitler’s work in Taiwan. These symbols are emblematic of hate, racism, and extreme violence, universally recognized as dark symbols in human history. Guo emphasized that such actions go against Taiwan’s cherished values of democracy, inclusivity, human rights, and mutual respect. She thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan for taking a clear stance on the issue and hoped for more institutions and organizations in Taiwan to openly condemn the use of Nazi symbols.
Guo also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the Taiwanese people, showcasing their moral beliefs and clear judgment of justice. She announced a joint commemoration event for the “International Holocaust Remembrance Day” at the end of April, organized by the Israeli Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, and in collaboration with the German Representative Office in Taiwan. Through remembrance, testimonies from survivors’ descendants, and education about this tragic history, they aim to deepen Taiwan’s understanding of the Holocaust and prevent such tragedies from recurring.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China released a statement today, condemning the inappropriate use of Nazi symbols due to the historical tragedies of the Holocaust caused by Nazi ideology and actions. They reiterated that most countries, including Taiwan, abhor and detest Nazi-related symbols and flags, with many explicitly prohibiting their use. The Ministry strongly condemns such expressions as highly inappropriate.
The Ministry emphasized Taiwan’s status as a free and democratic country where freedom of expression is protected by the constitution. They called for an understanding of the negative meanings and historical pain associated with Nazi symbols and gestures in the international community to avoid actions that harm the emotions of people in other countries, damage Taiwan’s overall image, and have no effective expression of opinions.
Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China urged the people and government to work together to show empathy towards different cultures, religions, and ethnic groups worldwide, striving for a better and more inclusive future.
The Youth League of the Kuomintang (KMT) expressed condemnation for inappropriate political symbols and support for deepening democratic participation. They strongly opposed the expression of political opinions using Nazi symbols and also issued a statement in English to clarify their position.