Weng Hsiao-ling proposes freezing Premier Cho Jung-tai's salary

Kuomintang legislator Weng Hsiao-ling has proposed freezing the salary of Executive Yuan Premier Cho Jung-tai for the period of September to December. Weng defended the move as a necessary measure to restrain what she characterized as the abuse of power by President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho.

Weng argued that the freeze is a legitimate use of legislative oversight, citing the Budget Act and noting that there is no specific law prohibiting the legislature from attaching conditions to the salary of political appointees. She countered claims from the Executive Yuan that the move was illegal, asserting that the Premier must fulfill constitutional duties, such as signing laws and properly allocating budgets, to justify his compensation.

The proposal follows broader political tensions regarding budget cuts. Critics and opposition members have noted that previous budget reductions for political official treatments have occurred, and Weng maintains that the freeze is a conditional measure intended to encourage constitutional compliance rather than a permanent reduction.