A New Era in
Taiwan's History
Lung-chu Chen
March 18, 2000 was a glorious day in Taiwan's
history. On that day, the Taiwanese voters, with wisdom, courage, and
confidence, wrote a new chapter in Taiwan's history, electing DPP's Chen
Shui-bian and Annette Lu as the new President and Vice-president. It had
been a long yet worthwhile wait for the Taiwanese. The struggle of the
Taiwanese both at home and abroad for more than five decades has finally
made their dream come true.
The outcome of the presidential election has made it abundantly clear that
the Taiwanese want a change. Wiping out black gold, the periodic rotation
of ruling political parties, and honest politics are the intense demands
and expectations of the people. The Taiwanese voters have waken up, and
cannot be easily intimidated by Chinese coercion. The Taiwanese wish to be
masters of their own destiny and are determined to defend their
sovereignty and dignity.
Democracy means respect for people's wishes. It relies on ballots rather
than guns, reason rather than violence. Although the campaigning was
highly negative, the whole process was peaceful until all the votes had
been counted.
Once the election outcome was known, however, violent protests in front of
the KMT headquarters erupted, causing disorder and disturbance. It was
regrettable and deplorable. Democracy and the rule of law are closely
linked. It is essential that voters learn to accept the election outcome
rationally and discontinue the protests immediately.
Taiwan's presidential election has attracted world-wide attention.
Taiwan's democratic experience under duress was a profile in courage.
President-elect Chen Shui-bian has repeatedly expressed his sincerity and
good will toward China for establishing peaceful relations. It is hoped
that China will reciprocate in the same spirit.
With the forthcoming peaceful transfer of power, president Chen will be
entrusted with a heavy responsibility for leading and governing the
country. May God bless him and his team. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese would do
well to ask themselves: how can they assist the new President and his
team, and what they together can do for their country. |