TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The former Minister of Transportation and Communications, Li Meng-yen (李孟諺), returned to the Cabinet this week. 

On Thursday, it was reported that Li will return to serve as an advisor to the government for his engineering and water conservation expertise, per CNA. In August last year, Li resigned from his position as transportation minister after allegations of an extramarital affair. 

Li only served 92 days as minister at the MOTC, the shortest tenure of any person to hold the office. In response to questions regarding his return to the Lai administration, the Cabinet said he was hired for his professional knowledge per regulations outlined by the Public Service Appointment Act. 

On Friday, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) confirmed the decision to rehire Li, noting that he is aware of public concerns. He noted that Li previously left the government due to personal reasons, but was fully qualified to serve as an advisor. 

Cho said Li will report directly to him, per UDN. The premier expressed confidence that Li would contribute greatly to water conservation projects in Taiwan.