Sexist remarks on President anger public in Taiwan

Outraged Taiwanese took to the Internet Thursday to slam sexist comments by a Chinese analyst who said the island’s new President practises “emotional” politics because she is a single woman.

The scathing attack Tuesday from a member of China’s organisation overseeing relations with the island comes amid heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei after the election of Taiwan’s first female leader, Beijing-sceptic Tsai Ing-wen.

Tsai’s office and the ruling DPP declined to comment on the remarks, but enraged politicians and citizens openly voiced their displeasure.

“It’s such a ridiculous remark and discrimination against single people. Everyone has the right to choose his or her lifestyle by having partners or staying single and that should be respected,” DPP legislator Yeh Yi-chin told AFP.

Another lawmaker Wang Yumin was equally incensed over the comments. “Such a personal attack is extremely improper. It’s gender discrimination and we strongly oppose such remarks,” said Wang, from the Beijing-friendly KMT party.