TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Control Yuan President Chen Chu (陳菊) is expected to return to work in Taipei after an absence of more than a year.

Chen has been recuperating at Kaohsiung Medical University’s Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital since undergoing emergency surgery for a brain embolism in December 2024. Her condition has reportedly improved in recent weeks and she is expected to be discharged in the coming weeks, per UDN.

Chen’s long absence has sparked debate over her ability to continue serving as head of the Control Yuan. In 2025, she reportedly submitted a resignation letter to President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), but it was rejected amid concerns that a successor could not be confirmed in the current political environment, per UDN.

If Chen were to step down, the government believes it is unlikely that an opposition-controlled legislature would approve a nominee put forward by Lai. Her absence also comes amid heightened tensions between the Cabinet and the Legislative Yuan, with opposition lawmakers calling for the Control Yuan to be abolished.

According to reports, Chen, 75, has impaired speech and uses crutches to walk. Despite these limitations, sources said she believes she can handle official duties.

Hospital officials declined to comment on her condition beyond saying she remains under treatment and rehabilitation, per UDN. In spring 2025, reports said Chen declined to receive her salary as Control Yuan president during her hospitalization.