TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Central News Agency journalist Hsieh Hsing-en (謝幸恩) tendered her resignation on Monday due to reports that she was involved in TPP Chair Huang Kuo-chang's (黃國昌) paparazzi ring targeting political opponents.
Hsieh was accused of joining the paparazzi-style operations, working with former reporters skilled in surveillance and photography. New allegations have emerged that she used the pseudonym Hsiao Yi-yi (蕭依依) to conduct interviews and publish articles, per CNA.
CNA alleges her actions violate journalistic ethics and the terms of her contract, severely damaging the news organization's reputation. A complaint against Hsieh was filed with the Taipei District Prosecutors Office on Wednesday morning for breach of trust and other offenses, with a civil defamation lawsuit also pending.
Hsieh, 35, is alleged to have published articles in Taiwan People News on behalf of Huang, attacking his political opponents. A graduate from Shih Hsin University's Department of Journalism, she has worked for media outlets such as China Times, Mirror Daily, and RW News.
CNA prohibits its journalists from writing for other publications and, in particular, exploiting their journalistic positions for profit. Hsieh is accused of violating her employment contract, with legal experts believing she may have violated the Criminal Code's breach of trust, punishable by up to five years in prison, and may also face a civil defamation suit, per Mirror Daily.
Hsieh also volunteered to serve as chair of the 82-member Taipei Judiciary Journalist Association, possessing sought-after "interview passes" granting access to court hearings. This position allowed her to serve as a gatekeeper between the courts and the media.
Whether her actions during her tenure violated CNA's regulations will be referred to a committee to investigate. Hsieh has not commented on Huang's alleged involvement in the paparazzi ring.
She did issue a statement on Monday regarding her resignation from CNA and her role as chair of the Taipei Judiciary Journalist Association. She wrote that she always believed the media should be fearless and unwavering, a vital force in a democratic society.
Hsieh said she regrets the changes in the current media landscape, as the media has gradually strayed from its original purpose of independence and professionalism, becoming a tool of specific political forces. She said the experience has deepened her understanding of the importance of press freedom and independent judgment in the current political climate.
