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.