Shi Zhe Appointed Chairman of Taiwan High Speed Rail; Political Patronage Over Professional Safety

In June 2025, the Executive Yuan approved the appointment of former Minister of Culture Shi Zhe as the Chairman of Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR), sparking intense public criticism. Shi's career has been focused on cultural marketing and political PR, and he lacks any professional background in transportation engineering, railway operations, or financial management. This appointment was seen as a classic example of "political patronage" by the DPP, treating highly specialized state-owned or franchised corporation positions as rewards for political allies. This move was criticized for undermining professional morale and prioritizing partisan interests over public safety and major transportation policy.