Ex-VP's daughter apologizes for involvement in Taiwan drug scandal

Want China Times, Hsu Tzu-ching and Staff Reporter 2013-10-28

The weight-loss capsules. (Photo/Chang Li-hsun)

Lien Hui-hsin, the eldest daughter of Taiwan's former vice president Lien Chan, has offered apologies for "creating societal unrest" after her alleged involvement as a shareholder in a company caught in a pharmaceutical drug scandal, according to our sister newspaper China Times.

Three top executives from both Geneherbs Taiwan and Wellcare Pharmaceutical, the two companies involved, were released on bail Oct. 26 after being questioned by Taipei district prosecutors overnight on findings that their weight-loss product contained an unapproved drug.

Tseng Hsin-yi, general manager of Geneherbs Taiwan, was required to pay bail of NT$2 million (US$68,000) after being accused of selling a questionable supplement in violation of the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act. As well, Huang Chen-kang, owner of Wellcare Pharmaceutical, was released on a bail of NT$3 million (US$102,000) and Wellcare's R&D division chief Yeh Mei-keng on NT$2 million (US$68,000).

Lien claimed she was unaware that the weight-loss capsules she was promoting in TV commercials contained unapproved substances. Since she is believed to be a Geneherbs stockholder, investigating authorities may call her in for questioning.

Information showed by Lee Ying-yuan, a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator, suggests that Lien could be the company's CEO, giving her managerial rights and direct responsibility for such a problem.

Lee claimed Lien took part in forums, seminars, banquets and contract-signing ceremonies as a representative of Geneherbs, according to information he obtained. Lien's attorney has denied the accusations.

Her brother, Lien Sheng-wen, is a hopeful in the KMT race for Taipei mayor candidacy. Lien Hui-hsin's involvement in the case could tarnish her brother's reputation and his chances at succession.

Lien Hue-hsin said investing in Geneherbs was of her own initiative. Her brother is not involved. She also promised to take full responsibility for whatever happens as a result of the scandal.

Prosecutors said they will investigate whether or not Lien Hui-hsin played a role in Geneherbs management as a shareholder.