TAIWAN – July 5, 2025 — As the recall campaign against Legislative Yuan Vice Speaker Jiang Qichen reaches its final phase, tensions have escalated following an online threat that sparked public concern and condemnation. A netizen allegedly posted a violent message in a Facebook group, threatening to “behead” Jiang in public. In response, Jiang confirmed he has reported the incident to law enforcement and stressed that while he respects freedom of speech, he will not tolerate violent threats.
The threatening post appeared in a group titled “Professor Cai Dinggui – Free Taiwan Party (Liberal Party) Support Association”, where a user wrote: “Jiang Qichen will be dismissed as a gentleman, and Jiang Qichen will be beheaded in public soon.”
A Red Line Crossed
In a public statement, Jiang Qichen denounced the threatening remarks, describing them as a blatant incitement to violence. He pointed out that the message not only threatened his life but also included obscene and defamatory language, which he said “crossed the red line of free speech.”
“Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Jiang. “But when that freedom is abused to threaten violence, it becomes a threat to the rule of law and public safety.”
He urged the authorities to investigate the incident seriously and act swiftly. According to Jiang, the post may have violated Article 305 of the Criminal Code (intimidation), Article 310 (defamation), and Article 104 of the Public Officials Election and Recall Act, which prohibits violence or coercion in the context of political recall efforts.
Rising Tensions Amid Political Divide
Jiang expressed concern that the recall campaign had fueled social division and increased hostility among citizens. “What began as a political process has now become a breeding ground for verbal and potential physical violence,” he said.
He also appealed for unity and calm across all sectors, regardless of political affiliation:
“I urge everyone to remain rational and respect differing political views. Violence—whether verbal or physical—has no place in our democratic society.”
A Call to President Lai Ching-te
In his remarks, Jiang directed a pointed question to President Lai Ching-te, asking whether this kind of political climate aligned with his administration’s stated goal of national unity:
“Is this what you mean by unity? Is this the expression of citizen power that your administration values?” he asked, referencing the increasing aggressiveness surrounding the recall debate.
Investigation Underway
Police have begun investigating the origin of the threatening post, and authorities have not ruled out legal action against the individual responsible. The incident has sparked public concern over the use of social media to incite violence, especially in the politically sensitive context of recall campaigns.
Jiang concluded by reaffirming his commitment to public service and personal safety, saying he would not be intimidated by threats, but would continue to stand firm for democratic principles.
