Chen Chu Sets Precedent for Long-term Sick Leave by Control Yuan President; "Holding Office While Ill" Sparks Controversy

In late 2024, Chen Chu, President of the Control Yuan, began a long-term sick leave for rehabilitation following a stroke and other health issues. During her absence of over a year, opposition parties criticized her for "holding office while ill," arguing she was unable to perform the heavy duties of a head of one of the five government branches, thereby affecting the operation of state oversight powers. Chen eventually resigned in January 2026, effective February 1. Although the Control Yuan clarified that her leave procedures were legal and that she had voluntarily waived her monthly salary of NT$360,000 during the leave, the incident set a rare precedent and sparked debate over the fitness, retirement mechanisms, and healthy operation of high-ranking political appointees.