Spokesperson of the anti new curriculum guidelines alliance in northern Taiwan, Lin, is reported to have committed suicide at home.

The 20-year-old student of Juang Jing Vocational High School was arrested last week for breaking into Ministry of Education and was ruled a NT$ 20,000 (approximately US$ 600) bail by the court.

Apple Daily reports, Lin says the principal once visited him on behalf of the Ministry of Education in concern of his appeal.

His parents changed their neutral attitude after the visit and said to him, “What right do you have to stand out?” This made Lin very disappointed and worried that his companions might suffer the same pressure.

On July 27, the alliance revealed a list of the 12 high schools the Ministry of Education has talked with. It also called on high school students to do everything they can to defend the futures of their schools if the authorities start limiting the students’ freedom of speech.

CNA reports, presidential candidate and the Democratic Progressive Party Chairman Tsai Ing-wen says, the party will support any social movements that holds similar demands.

KMT presidential candidate Hung Xiu-ju says the DPP altered the curriculum guideline in line with the historical concept of Taiwan independence when it was in office.

“I pity the protesting teenagers,” Hung says. “I will definitely change the curriculum guidelines if I win the election.”

Translated by June
Edited by Olivia Yang

Sources:
Apple Daily
CNA