Kinmen:Taipei The family of a junior high school teacher, who was found dead in his rented home in Kinmen County, is demanding an independent investigation into claims that he was bullied by students over his gender expression.

According to Focus Taiwan, during a news conference held in Taipei, the family urged for the involvement of external experts in the investigation. The Ministry of Education has committed to enhancing its oversight of the investigation and creating a dedicated contact point for communication.

The teacher's sister, speaking alongside representatives from the National Substitute and Part-time Teachers' Union and Democratic Progressive Party lawmakers Chen Pei-yu and Fan Yun, stated that her brother faced discrimination and verbal abuse at school due to his gentle demeanor. She noted that derogatory comments continued even after his death. The family is seeking a transparent investigation and justice, hoping to prevent similar tragedies for other teachers.

Union chairperson Kit Huang revealed that an anonymous student account claimed another student used derogatory terms about the teacher's gender expression, filmed him, and shared the video online. The student also reportedly mocked the teacher posthumously.

Fan Yun highlighted concerns that Kinmen's close-knit community might discourage students from speaking out and urged for a system allowing anonymous student testimonies. Chen Pei-yu called for the direct appointment of independent experts to the investigation team by the ministry.

Senior ministry official Hung Chen-hui expressed regret over the incident and assured that the ministry would support the county government and school in finalizing the investigation. A dedicated contact point will be established for this purpose. Normally, the school's gender equality committee would handle such cases, but the ministry is considering lawmakers' proposals for anonymous submissions and the inclusion of external experts.