Seven of Taiwan’s 15 current justices are scheduled to retire this October. The Presidential Office announced replacements for the seven, including new Judicial Court president and vice president nominees, this Friday.
President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has nominated NTU's College of Law professor Chang Wen-chen (張文貞) for Judiciary president, and former legislator Yao Li-ming (姚立明) for Judiciary vice president. Chang is the first woman to be nominated for the position in Taiwan’s history. Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) pointed out that if the seven nominees are approved by the Legislature, women will comprise nearly half of the presiding justices, a record high.
Hsiao explained that she believes if Chang were to be appointed she could enrich the professional, progressive, and international composition of the justices. Hsiao said the judiciary president and vice president must have determination and strong leadership skills; they must be able to carry out judicial reform and administer justice.
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim introduces the seven nominees at a press conference. (Photo: CNA)
Hsiao elaborated on the nominees’ expertise, saying that all seven nominees have profound legal literacy and progressive concepts of democracy and human rights.
If approved by the Legislature, the nominees will take office on November 1.