To ensure the fairness and justice of the 2026 "nine-in-one" local elections, Probation Officer Chang Yao-chung of the Taiwan Chiayi District Prosecutors Office visited the Chiayi County Service Center of the National Immigration Agency on January 17, 2026. The visit aimed to conduct anti-bribery legal education for new immigrants and their families. The Prosecutors Office emphasized that the government has prepared high rewards to encourage citizens to bravely report illegal activities and collectively build a transparent and just democratic system.

The Probation Officer pointed out that bribery techniques are diverse. Beyond traditional cash-for-votes, they include disguised methods such as:

• Sponsored travel and tours.

• Distribution of high-value daily supplies.

• Temptations through election gambling pools.

New immigrants were reminded that receiving money, gifts, or invitations to free banquets—where the provider requests a vote for a "specific candidate" or even requests a voter to abstain—may constitute election bribery. The legal consequences are severe: those who buy votes face 3 to 10 years of imprisonment and fines up to NT$10 million. Those who sell their votes commit the crime of accepting bribes under the Criminal Code, facing up to 3 years in prison and the confiscation of illegal gains. Citizens are urged not to break the law out of momentary greed.

Reward Standards for the 2026 Elections

To encourage active reporting, the Probation Officer detailed the reward standards for the 2026 local elections. The rewards follow the principle of "payout upon indictment, full amount upon final conviction," and the identity of informants is kept strictly confidential.

The officer stressed that rather than accepting a small bribe, it is better to earn a reporting reward. If bribery is discovered, citizens should refuse immediately and preserve the evidence.

Protecting the Community

The Chiayi District Prosecutors Office emphasized that new immigrants are a vital force in Taiwanese society. Through this educational outreach, they hope to root democratic values in the community, helping everyone understand that "reporting bribery is not 'snitching,' but protecting your home." Together, we can reject vote-buying and elect capable individuals who truly serve the local community.