A Taichung city contract has become a political flashpoint, casting a bad light on Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen ahead of the mayoral race.

• Taichung's "hot pot and grill" festival contract, worth NT$14 million, was awarded to China Television Company (CTV).
• CTV's general manager, Lu Hsiu-fang, is the sister of Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen, which critics say looks improper.
• DPP mayoral candidate Ho Hsin-chun called the deal suspicious and demanded the city explain how the winner was chosen.
• A lawyer publicly questioned why there was no recusal to avoid a conflict of interest.
• The city government says the contract followed public procurement law, was openly tendered, and that officials recuse themselves when conflicts arise.

Outlook: Expect the opposition to keep pressing for details on the selection process as the Taichung mayoral campaign heats up.