The Taiwan Affairs Office of the Chinese mainland strongly criticized the Democratic Progressive Party authorities in Taiwan on Tuesday for launching investigations into 41 neighborhood chiefs from Taipei regarding their visits to the mainland ahead of the island's leadership election.

According to Taiwan media reports, the authorities in Taiwan accused these neighborhood chiefs of receiving hospitality during their visits to the mainland and allegedly participating in activities supporting specific political candidates upon their return to Taiwan. Subsequently, their offices and residences were searched, and they were summoned for questioning about their trips.

Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, expressed condemnation, stating that the office has received numerous reports from various sectors of Taiwan residents facing intimidation and obstruction from the DPP authorities when engaging in normal exchanges and visits to the mainland. Some individuals have been subjected to unjust investigations with fabricated charges.

Zhu emphasized that cross-Strait personnel exchanges have been ongoing for over three decades. The recent oppressive actions by the DPP have created a chilling atmosphere, leading to discontent among Taiwan residents. She added, "We deeply understand the frustration experienced by Taiwan residents due to oppressive measures imposed by the DPP," noting that the momentum of cross-Strait exchanges cannot be halted.

"The power of the people will eventually overcome obstacles on the path of cross-Strait exchanges," she said.