Monday, July 29, 2013

Taiwan defence minister resigns amid conscription death row


Taiwan defence minister resigns amid conscription death row

Protesters hold posters that read "Give the truth" next to portraits of Taiwan soldier Hung Chung-chiu, Taipei, 20 July 2013Thousands of protestors demanded an investigation into Mr Hung's death

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Taiwan's defence minister has resigned following the death of a young conscript in the military.
Hung Chung-chiu died after suffering from heatstroke on 3 July. He had been forced to undergo vigorous exercises and solitary confinement.
The 24-year-old was being punished for taking a mobile phone with a camera onto a military base.
Former minister Kao Hua-chu has been replaced by Andrew Yang, the first civilian to head up the department.
Announcing the reshuffle at a press conference on Monday, Taiwan Premier Jiang Yi-huah said: "The reshuffle is aimed at responding to the general public's expectations."
Mr Jiang did not elaborate on the reasons behind Mr Kao's resignation.
Hung Chung-chiu's death sparked an outcry on the island, with thousands of protesters demanding an investigation.
Four military officers have been detained as part of an investigation into the incident, reports say.
Mr Hung was three days away from completing his compulsory one-year military service when he died.
All Taiwanese men aged between 18 and 36 are required to complete one year's military service, although there are plans to move to an all-volunteer force.

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