Taipei: The Control Yuan has launched an investigation into a workplace bullying case involving Taiwan's suspended trade representative Yang Jen-ni, a Cabinet official said Wednesday.

According to Focus Taiwan, during a legislative hearing, Cabinet Secretary-General Xavier Chang stated that the Control Yuan began its inquiry shortly after the Cabinet formed its internal investigation team in March 2026. All related administrative and legal procedures were still ongoing and would continue in accordance with established regulations, Chang noted, without providing any details on further steps related to Yang's situation beyond the Control Yuan probe.

The Cabinet investigation revealed last week that Yang had created a challenging working environment for her late deputy, Yen Huai-hsing, following allegations that surfaced after Yen's resignation in February and her death on March 12 at the age of 53. Premier Cho Jung-tai decided to suspend Yang on Monday after the Cabinet's report concluded that Yang had engaged in workplace bullying.

Yang, however, denied any wrongdoing and questioned the legitimacy of the report, claiming that the investigation lacked procedural fairness and relied on limited testimony. She also mentioned the possibility of taking legal action over what she described as damage to her reputation.

Chang clarified that the Cabinet's investigation report was prepared by an external review panel over three months and expressed confidence that it would "be able to withstand scrutiny." He added that different perspectives had been considered during the investigation.

On Tuesday, approximately 30 staff members at the Office of Trade Negotiations, which Yang headed before her suspension, issued a statement expressing support for her. The involvement of the Control Yuan could significantly impact Yang's future. This government branch is responsible for investigating wrongdoing by government agencies, officials, and civil servants and holds the power to censure or impeach individuals. While its decisions are often seen as relatively toothless, in this case, the Control Yuan could potentially impeach Yang, leading to her case being referred to the Disciplinary Court for adjudication.