“Lee and Li, a firm experienced in tackling international lawsuits, will be responsible for Yang’s case on behalf of Taiwan,” said Johnny Chi-chen Chiang, minister of the Government Information Office, Nov. 21.
“The firm will assist Yang in considering the possibility of filing a complaint with the Lausanne-based Court of Arbitration for Sport,” Chiang said. “The reputations of Taiwan’s athletes and coaches must be protected and their rights should never be impinged upon.”
The government’s latest move follows a pledge last week to pursue Yang’s disqualification with international sports arbitration authorities if results of investigations by the Asian and world taekwondo bodies prove unacceptable.
The Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee is taking no chances, however, and has referred the dispute to the Olympic Council of Asia. The council responded that it is monitoring the situation and has ordered a full investigation into the matter.
“We welcome the OCA’s reply and believe it confirms their deep-seated concern over the incident, ” said Kevin Kuo-i Chen, secretary-general of the committee. “There are too many disputed facts for the situation to be ignored.” (JSM)
Write to Elaine Hou at elainehou@mail.gio.gov.tw