Influencer Yaya in Taiwan Voluntarily Departs Amid Residence Permit Revocation
Liu Zhenya, known as “Yaya in Taiwan,” left Taiwan voluntarily after her residence permit was revoked due to comments advocating military unification with China. Despite initial claims of staying, Liu held a news conference before departure, highlighting concerns for her reputation and family. The Taiwanese government has been strict on such matters, enforcing limits on speech that jeopardizes national security.
Liu Zhenya, a Chinese influencer known as “Yaya in Taiwan,” voluntarily departed Taiwan on an evening flight to Fuzhou, China, despite her earlier claims of having no intentions to leave. Her residence permit was revoked after she made comments suggesting Taiwan should be unified with China through military force. The Ministry of the Interior had been considering deportation options but ultimately took a flexible approach, allowing Liu to leave at her own volition.
Before her departure, Liu held a news conference at Taipei International Airport, stating her desire to “clear her name”. She was preceded by prominent anti-Communist influencers, including Taiwanese rapper Chen Po-yuan, who conducted a YouTube livestream against her actions, which garnered significant viewership. Premier Cho Jung-tai reaffirmed the government’s strict stance on comments that threaten Taiwan’s sovereignty, emphasizing that illegal actions would face severe consequences.
Cho indicated that freedom of speech in Taiwan has limits, particularly when it compromises national integrity. He noted that democratic nations have established precedents for restricting speech that endangers national security and public interests. Furthermore, Chiu Chui-cheng, the Mainland Affairs Council Minister, supported the revocation of Liu’s permit, stating that advocating for military unification does not fall under protected speech.
Despite her sentiments, Liu had initially claimed she would stay in Taiwan, appealing to halt her deportation after being denied by the Taipei High Administrative Court. Her attempts to hand a petition to the Ministry of the Interior were met with a lack of ministry representation, while protests against her continued, focusing on her perceived support for military action against Taiwan.
Liu’s online platform has over 500,000 followers, and her comments advocating military unification led to her questioning by authorities. After the revocation of her residency, Liu stated she believed her accusations were unfounded and a personal attack, while expressing concern for her children’s wellbeing amidst the controversy.
In conclusion, Liu Zhenya’s departure from Taiwan underlines the tensions surrounding national security and freedom of speech within the region. The Taiwanese government’s firm stance against comments advocating for military unification with China highlights their commitment to sovereignty and public safety. Liu’s situation and the authorities’ actions resonate with broader principles observed in democratic nations regarding the limits of free expression.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
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