BEIJING – The Chinese mainland has announced plans to impose sanctions on certain Taiwan political commentators accused of spreading false information about the mainland, according to Chen Binhua, a spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.
Chen stated on Wednesday that some commentators from Taiwan have been disseminating fabricated and negative information about China’s development through various media platforms, including television, the internet, and newspapers. These actions, he claimed, have fueled antagonism on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
In recent years, certain political commentators from Taiwan have been accused of making statements such as mainland residents being unable to afford tea eggs, which have sparked online tensions. Specific individuals, including Edward Huang and Wang Yi-chuan, were mentioned for their comments about the affordability of common foods and the conditions of high-speed trains on the mainland.
Chen emphasized that such statements have misled some people in Taiwan, exacerbated hostility, and harmed cross-Strait relations. He announced that measures would be taken to sanction the five individuals and their families involved in spreading these rumors.
Chen asserted that public opinion must align with the law and that any act of fabricating and spreading rumors, disrupting social order, or harming the country’s honor and interests would be legally punished.
When questioned about the response to Taiwan’s incoming government, which includes several pro-independence members, Chen indicated that legal measures would be introduced to combat separatist activities. Advocating for independence is considered against the national interest, and stringent legal measures will be enforced to address such activities.
Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party, Taiwan’s incoming leader, will assume office on Monday, replacing Tsai Ing-wen. Lai has previously described himself as a pragmatic advocate for “Taiwan independence” and has nominated officials with strong anti-mainland sentiments for key positions.
Chen urged the new Taiwan leader to address cross-Strait relations seriously in his inauguration speech and to make a clear choice between peaceful development and confrontation.
In recent developments, various pro-reunification parties and groups in Taiwan have launched a campaign urging Lai to adhere to the one-China principle and recognize the desire for peace among the majority of Taiwan’s population.
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