TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A former inmate of 20 years is now a city councilor in Taoyuan after winning an election in which his opponent was disqualified for bribery.
Since his inauguration on June 24, independent Taoyuan City Councilor Duan Shu-wen (段樹文) has headed a committee related to policing and health. Once wanted by the police, he is now reviewing their funding and questioning officers.
In June, Duan replaced Liu Mao-chun (劉茂群) of the Kuomingtang party after he was disqualified for bribery. Duan has since taken over Liu’s committee assignments, despite his hesitancy to assume the police oversight post.
He was told to follow the council's regulations and wait for the yearly rotations, according to UDN.
In an interview with CNA, Duan admitted that he was first imprisoned at the age of 17 and later listed as one of Taiwan's "10 most notorious criminals" for his involvement in the killing of gang leaders in Taoyuan. In 2010, he was detained again when police went after the gang he led with gun charges and charges related to unlawful debt collection.
After more than 20 years of incarceration, Duan decided to turn his life around and make good on his commitment to his family, he said. Before entering politics, he was involved in charity and managed a local temple in Taoyuan's Bade District.
"Since I cannot leave the position, I will just face the challenge and fulfill my responsibility as a councilor," Duan said.
Drawing on his knowledge of police matters, Duan maintains that he is in a great position to fulfill his duties. He pledged that he will strive to uphold the interests of his constituents.
