A Perspective on the
eve of the Presidential Election
Lung-chu Chen
For the
second time in Taiwan's history, the Taiwanese people will go to the polls
to engage in direct election of their President on March 18. The direction
election of the President became a reality only after many years of
struggle by the Taiwanese both at home and abroad. The hard-won democracy,
precious as it is, requires constant vigilance and defense.
This presidential election will have far-reaching impacts on the future of
Taiwan. Just consider: Will Taiwan become a "normal" State with dignity
both in name and in fact in the international community? Will it be able
to wipe out "black gold" and to establish a just society based on the rule
of law and a political system conducive to the periodic rotation of ruling
political parties? Will Taiwan become a first-rate country in the global
village?
In this election, two major forces are in clash: positive campaigning vs.
negative campaigning; good people vs. black gold; honesty vs. deceit;
facts vs. distortion; confidence vs. fear; democracy vs. war-mongering;
peace with justice vs. peace without justice; true love for Taiwan vs.
false love for Taiwan. What is remarkable is that the positive force is
now gaining momentum. More and more good people have come forward and
spoken up for honesty, truth, democracy, peace, justice and love.
In a democracy, people are sovereign; democracy respects public opinion
and relies on ballots rather than guns. Indeed, in a civilized society,
ballots are mightier than guns. I hope every Taiwanese voter will exercise
his or her right to vote with wisdom, courage, and confidence. It is hoped
that the new President will be someone who is honest, impeccable in
integrity, has the guts and determination to wipe out black gold, and the
vision to seek perpetual peace while defending Taiwan's sovereignty and
dignity.
March 18, 2000 is a very special day in the history of Taiwan. Will the
Taiwanese voters rise to the occasion and elect someone who genuinely
identifies with the island nation of Taiwan and will make them proud. |