By KHT Staff
KAOHSIUNG — A veteran Kaohsiung councillor known for supporting renewable energy has become the focus of a corruption investigation involving a solar power project.
Prosecutors searched the home and office of Democratic Progressive Party councillor Chen Ming-ze on Thursday before questioning him overnight. They later asked a court to detain him and restrict outside contact. Investigators allege Chen intervened in a dispute surrounding a solar development in Luzhu District after residents raised concerns about soil filling and waste disposal. Prosecutors are examining whether he then demanded payments from the company involved. The case carries an awkward political twist. Chen has represented northern Kaohsiung for more than two decades and has publicly promoted renewable energy and industrial development in the area.
Several other people were also questioned as part of the investigation. Chen has not been convicted, and prosecutors have not publicly released the evidence against him. The allegations will now be tested as the investigation moves forward, threatening to overshadow the final months of his long political career.
