Defence boss quits after conscript’s death

TAIPEI: Taiwan’s defence minister has resigned, Premier Jiang Yi-huah said yesterday, after the death of a corporal who was allegedly abused by the military in a case that has sparked outrage across the island.

Mr Jiang, who announced the resignation of Kao Hua-chu during a press conference to reveal a cabinet reshuffle, did not elaborate on the reasons for the minister’s stepping down.

‘‘The reshuffle is aimed at responding to the general public’s expectations. We hope the new cabinet can work to enhance the people’s wellbeing,’’ the premier said without taking questions.

Observers say the move was aimed at pacifying outrage over the death of Corporal Hung Chung-chiu.

Hung died on July 4 of heatstroke apparently caused by being forced to exercise excessively. It was just three days before he was due to be discharged following completion of his compulsory year-long military service.

Allegations of abuse and misconduct have snowballed in local media, including claims that Hung’s superiors refused to give him water during an exercise session despite his repeated requests.

Hung was reportedly at odds with his superiors for making complaints against them, with local media saying he had been placed in solitary confinement for taking a smartphone onto the army base.

President Ma Ying-jeou and Mr Kao have previously apologised for the tragedy, vowing to thoroughly investigate the case and punish those responsible.

Four military officials were detained by authorities on abuse charges in connection to the case, while punitive measures have been taken against 26 others.

The probe has so far failed to appease public ire, with thousands of people demonstrating outside the Defence Ministry in Taipei earlier this month.

Analysts have said the death has dealt a further blow to the Defence Ministry’s plans to set up a professional military by the end of 2015.