TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) on Tuesday (June 25) called upon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to look into media reports that Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the U.S., Yui Tah-ray (俞大㵢), squandered public funds and mistreated subordinates during his six-month tenure, per CNA.

Yui has been accused of submitting lavish purchasing requests for items such as a Cadillac Escalade, an expensive handmade French Roche Bobois couch, luxury beds, carpet, a coffee machine, and reimbursement for personal expenses under the guise of “guest” expenses, per SETN.

The envoy and his wife have been accused of spending NT$8 million (US$246,845). Cho has directed MOFA to review Yui's expenses and said that any illegality must be dealt with immediately, while a public explanation must be given as soon as possible.

Inside sources allege no guests have stayed at Taiwan embassy facilities in Washington, saying Yui claimed reimbursements for personal expenses, which is prohibited. The sources said Yui should be familiar with all MOFA regulations considering his long-term service with the ministry. 

Yui’s request for the Cadillac Escalade was ultimately denied, as the embassy only allows new vehicle purchases every eight years, or after 100,000 km. The embassy purchased a new vehicle two years ago so his request was rejected.

SETN cited inside sources that Yui was spending excessively from the moment he took office in mid-December. He has also been accused of using Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s (蕭美琴) name (the former U.S. envoy) to submit claims for expensive bath towels, French mineral water, and a high-end restaurant banquet.

Cho has pledged scrutiny and management of all foreign embassy personnel in light of the accusations against Yui.