Taiwan legislator Qi Guang-yang released on bail over election bribery allegations

Taiwanese legislator Qi Guang-yang has been released on 120,000 TWD bail following an investigation by the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office into alleged election bribery.

Prosecutors allege that in May, Qi facilitated the acquisition of two large garbage trucks for a community in Taoyuan through a committee member. In return, Qi reportedly received a certificate of appreciation as a candidate, which was displayed in the building's elevator.

Additionally, investigators found that during a Mid-Autumn Festival event on September 19, various prizes including mops, an electric fan, and thermoses were provided. During the prize drawing, a local candidate allegedly called for votes for both themselves and Qi.

Qi has denied all wrongdoing, stating he did not personally donate any equipment and that securing resources for his district is a standard duty of a representative. He expressed shock at the investigation and claimed the allegations are a result of malicious reporting and framing.