Taiwan’s 2008 Elections
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Bush sees Ma victory as
'fresh opportunity' for Taiwan Strait
(AFP, Mar. 23, 2008) US President George W. Bush welcomed the victory of
Taiwan's presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou as a "fresh
opportunity" for Taipei and China to peacefully resolve their
differences.
Opposition's Ma Sweeps to
Taiwan Presidential Victory
(AFP, Mar. 22, 2008) Taiwan's opposition candidate Ma Ying-jeou surged to victory over his ruling party
rival in a presidential vote dominated by concern over the economy and hopes
for better relations with China. Ma had
a massive 17-point lead over Frank Hsieh.
Taiwan's UN Referendums Fail
(AP, Mar. 22, 2008) The official Central Election Commission says Taiwan's two referendums on joining the United Nations have failed.
China Relations and Tibet Mark Final Hours of Taiwan
Campaign (Reuters, Mar. 21, 2008) Taiwan's stormy relations with China and recent violence in Tibet
are dominating the final hours before the island's presidential election on
Saturday, as each side seeks to show it is best qualified to resist Beijing.
Parties Ask Voters to be Alert for Dirty Tricks'
(Taipei Times, Mar. 20, 2008) Both the KMT and the DPP called on voters to be
on the lookout for "dirty tricks" played by their rival camps in
the run-up to Saturday's presidential election. The KMT listed possible
election tactics from the DPP and urged voters not to forget the "319
shooting incident" of 2004.
U.S. Carriers Sent toward
Taiwan before Election
(Reuters, Mar. 19, 2008) - Two U.S. aircraft carriers, including the USS Kitty Hawk, have been sent to
the Taiwan region for training exercises during this weekend's Taiwanese
election, a U.S. defense official said.
Taiwan Presidential Favorite
Lashes 'Arrogant' Wen
(AFP, Mar. 19, 2008) Taiwan's presidential frontrunner accused Chinese
Premier Wen Jiabao of arrogance Tuesday for saying the island's future should
be decided by all the Chinese people. In unusually strong comments four days
ahead of the election, Ma Ying-jeou said Taiwan's future would be decided by
its people alone, without Beijing's interference.
Ma May Boycott Olympics if
Clash in Tibet Worsens
(Taiwan News, Mar. 19, 2008) Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou
said that if elected president, he will not rule out the possibility of
boycotting the Beijing Olympics if China’s crackdown on Tibet continues to
worsen.
KMT's Ma Accepts Hsieh's
Apology for Chuang's Slander
(China Post, Mar. 18, 2008) Kuomintang presidential hopeful Ma Ying-jeou
accepted Frank Hsieh's apology for the bad-mouthing by Ministry of Education
chief of staff Chuang Kuo-yung of his deceased father.
One China Eludes Ma's Agenda
as Taiwan Sees Kuomintang Victory
(Bloomberg, Mar. 17, 2008) Bloomberg) Ma Ying-jeou's likely election as
Taiwan's president on March 22 is raising expectations of a rapid end to
military tensions and economic restrictions with mainland China. They may be
misplaced.
Tibet Unrest Prompts
Taiwanese Parties to Harden Stance toward China (Vancouver Sun, Mar. 16,
2008) In a significant change of tone, both candidates for Saturday's
presidential election here have hardened their stance on relations with
Beijing as more details emerge of the extent of the crackdown against Tibetan
demonstrators by Chinese forces.
Mass Rallies Held in Final
Stretch
(China Post, Mar. 16, 2008) The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and
the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) are gearing up for the final stretch of their
presidential election battle, each aiming to galvanize a million supporters
onto the streets in mass rallies around the island today to canvass votes for
March 22 polls.
Defend Taiwan's Sovereignty,
Says Ma
(Taipei Times, Mar. 15, 2008) KMT presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou voiced
his opposition to China's "Anti-Secession" Law and declared his
determination to defend Taiwan's sovereignty if elected.
Taiwan's Ma Rules Out Hu
Meeting, Vows Expanded Ties If Elected
(Bloomberg, Mar. 14, 2008) Ma Ying-jeou, Taiwan's leading presidential
candidate, ruled out directly negotiating with China and meeting with its
leader in the next four years while promising to quickly expand travel and
investment ties to the mainland if he's elected.
Taiwan Minister Quits, Ma
Apologizes After City Brawl
(Bloomberg, Mar. 13, 2008)Taiwan Finance Minister Ho Chih-
chin resigned and the leading candidate for the March 22
presidential election apologized following the worst public disturbances
since the 10-month campaign began.
First Melee Erupts as
Presidential Race Heats Up
(China Post, Mar. 13, 2008) A melee erupted at the campaign headquarters of
presidential candidate Frank Hsieh of the ruling party yesterday when three
opposition lawmakers entered the building in downtown Taipei in a move to
gather evidence for alleged corruption involving Hsieh.
US Keeping Close Eye on
Taiwan Strait
(Taipei Times, Mar. 13, 2008) The commander of the US forces in the Pacific
said on Tuesday he has seen no indication of unusual Chinese military
movements in the Taiwan Strait ahead of Taiwan's presidential election, but
his forces will monitor the situation "very carefully" in the
period between March 22 poll and the presidential inauguration in May.
Hsieh, Ma Face Off in Last
Debate
(Taipei Times, Mar. 10, 2008) DPP presidential candidate Frank Hsieh and his KMT rival Ma Ying-jeou faced off in
the second and final televised debate yesterday, with Hsieh attacking Ma's
cross-strait economic policy, while Ma criticized the performance of the DPP
administration.
Hsieh Advocates Cooperation;
Ma Asks for Full Rule
(Taiwan News, Mar. 8, 2008) Democratic Progressive Party presidential
candidate Frank Hsieh stated that he would aim to end "cutthroat
political struggle" through "coexistence" and would be willing
to appoint a Kuomintang premier, while KMT rival Ma Ying-jeou called for
"complete governance" so that the KMT would bear "full
responsibility" for realizing its policies.
Ruling
Party
Uses
China-Phobia
to Try
to Cut
Gap
in Taiwan Election
(AP,
Mar. 8, 2008) Only two weeks before Taiwan's March 22 presidential
elections, Frank Hsieh of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party is counting
on fear of rival China to help him overtake his opponent.
Taiwan's Opposition
Presidential Candidate Widens Lead: Poll
(AFP, Mar. 3, 2008) With the presidential vote barely three weeks away, Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT) party candidate Ma Ying-jeou has widened his lead over rival Frank Hsieh of the ruling party.
Ma's support rose to 54 percent, up five percent compared with last week,
while support for Hsieh rose from 19 percent to 20 percent.
Taiwan Presidential Hopefuls Back Better China Ties
(AFP, Feb. 25, 2008) Taiwan's presidential hopefuls voiced support for a
lessening of tensions with rival China as they squared off in their first
live televised debate ahead of next month's election.
Hsieh, Ma Go Head to Head in
Debate
(Taipei Times, Feb. 25, 2008) Frank Hsieh and Ma Ying-jeouwent head to head
in their first pre-election televised debate. They discussed issues ranging
from national identity and cross-strait affairs to the economy, environment
and social welfare.
If Elected, Hsieh Will
Invite Hu to Meet in Kinmen
(Taiwan News, Feb. 19, 2008) Democratic Progressive Party presidential
candidate Frank Hsieh issued an invitation to People's Republic of China
State Chairman Hu Jintao to visit Taiwan during a campaign stop on the
Taiwan-ruled island of Kinmen off the Fujian coast.
Spy Claims Hit Taiwan
Presidential Hopeful's Support: Poll
(AFP, Feb. 16, 2008) Support for Taiwan presidential candidate Frank Hsieh has dropped since he was accused of spying
on a dissident group in the 1980s which established his current party,
according to a poll released.
'Next' Accuses Hsieh of Being Spy in 1980s
(China Post, Feb. 14, 2008) Frank Hsieh has been alleged to have acted as a
government informant during the 1980s, spying on the opposition camp that has
since become the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) he is representing in the
presidential election.
Legislature Sworn In ahead of Presidential Poll
(Taiwan News, Feb. 2, 2008) Opposition Kuomintang heavyweight Wang Jin-pyng
was re-elected for his fourth term as speaker of the new Legislature, which
is a restructured, downsized 113-member lawmaking body.
Old Passport Clears KMT Hopeful
(China Post, Feb. 1, 2008) A spokesperson for opposition Kuomintang (KMT)
presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou produced one of Ma's old passports,
demonstrating that the presidential hopeful did apply for visas while
visiting the U.S. in the early 1990s.
Hsieh, Ma Begin Presidential Campaigns Today
(Taiwan News, Jan. 28, 2008) Presidential candidates kicked off their
campaigns for elections scheduled for March 22, with ruling the party
presidential candidate offering a "three noes and two do nots"
pledge, and the opposition party presidential candidate calling for the
establishment of a new Taiwan and closer tie with China.
Ma Unveils Cultural Policies, Wants More 'Soft Power'
(Taipei Times, Jan. 25, 2008) Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou unveiled his cultural policies, pledging to establish a Ministry of
Culture and Tourism and to increase the budget for the cultural sector from
1.3 percent of the general budget to 4 percent if elected president.
Hsieh Vows to
Seek Peace Pact with China
(Reuters, Jan. 25, 2008) Taiwan presidential candidate Frank Hsieh, whose
ruling party traditionally takes a hard line against China, said yesterday he
would seek a peace agreement with China if elected in a March 22 election.
Nobel Laureate Endorses Hsieh for President
(Taiwan News, Jan. 23, 2008) Chemistry Nobel Laureate Lee Yuan-tseh has said
that he looks forward to seeing Frank Hsieh win the presidential election in
March. If the Kuomintang, which won a landslide victory in the legislative
election on January 12, also won the March 22 presidential election, Taiwan's
democracy would be thrust into a dangerous situation.
Hsieh Welcomes Power-Sharing Idea
(Taipei Times, Jan 18, 2008) One day after saying he would appoint a CEO as
premier if elected, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate
Frank Hsieh said he would "seriously consider" asking his
Kuomintang (KMT) rival to lead the Cabinet.
Ma Vows to Maintain Status Quo
(Taiwan News, Jan. 16, 2008) The opposition Kuomintang's presidential
candidate Ma Ying-jeou pledged that he would not declare independence for
Taiwan or seek unification with China if he is elected president. Instead he
would seek cooperation with China for the benefit of both sides, he said.
DPP Names Frank Hsieh as Acting Party Chairman
(AFP, Jan. 3, 2008) Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP),
reeling after a crushing defeat in weekend parliamentary polls, tried to
bounce back by naming its presidential hopeful as acting chairman. As party
chairman, Mr Hsieh - who has kept a relatively low profile in the legislative
campaign - would be in a strong position to influence the party's strategy in
the upcoming presidential race.
Chen Steps Down as DPP Chairman
(Taiwan News, Jan. 13, 2008) President Chen Shui-bian resigned his concurrent
post as chairman of the governing Democratic Progressive Party to take
"full responsibility" for what he termed "the greatest defeat
suffered by the DPP since its founding" over 21 years ago.
Taiwan Opposition Heads to Landslide Win
(AP, Jan. 12, 2008) Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT) appeared headed to a
landslide victory in legislative elections, dealing a blow to the
government's hardline China policies
two months before a presidential poll.
Chen Revisits Site of 2004 Shooting to Win Votes
(Straits Times, Jan. 10, 2008) Mr Chen retraced the exact route he took four
years ago when he was shot while campaigning for his presidential
re-election. By revisiting the trail, he could have one goal in mind: to evoke
the memories - and badly needed support - of voters.
Taiwan Prosecutor's Office to Appeal Acquittal of Opposition Leader (DPA, Jan. 9, 2008)
Taiwan's prosecutor's office said that it would appeal the High Court's
acquittal of opposition leader Ma Ying-jeou on embezzlement charges, a move
that might affect Ma's run for president.
Man Attacks Wife of Taiwan Polls Candidate
(AP, Jan. 9, 2008) The wife of a prominent Taiwanese lawmaker was assaulted
yesterday while canvassing for votes in southern Taiwan ahead of legislative
elections. The attack is not the first of its kind in the current election
campaign.
Taiwan Gears Up for Vote with 'Super Sunday' Rallies
(AFP, Jan. 7, 2008) Taiwan's political heavyweights hit the campaign trail
Sunday with less than a week to go before parliamentary elections seen as a
key indicator of who could take the presidency in March.
Taiwan's President Promises Peaceful Transition of Power
(DPA, Jan. 6, 2008) Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian promised he will ensure a
peaceful transition of power when he steps down on March 20. "You can be
hundred per cent sure about peaceful transition of power on May 20. Some
people said I will try to prolong my term by imposing the martial law. I
won't do that," Chen said.
Ma Files Lawsuits Against Prosecutors
(Taiwan News, Jan. 4, 2008) After temporarily enjoying the not-guilty verdict
on his special allowance funds case, Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou had his lawyers file lawsuits at the Taipei District Prosecutors'
Office against prosecutors for alleged document forgery and negligence of
duty.
KMT Accepts CEC Voting Method
(Taiwan News, Dec. 30, 2007) The opposition Kuomintang decided not to
continue insisting on its "two-step" voting format for the upcoming
Legislative elections on January 12, saying it would accept the Central
Election Commission's modified "one-step" voting format.
Ma's Popularity Rate Surges After Acquittal
(China Post, Dec. 30, 2007) Voter support for presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou of the opposition Kuomintang has surged. 45.3 percent said they
would vote for the Ma-Siew ticket, the highest rate of its kind shown in five
surveys carried out by the China Times. By contrast, 24.2 percent of the
surveyed voters said they would support the DPP's Hsieh-Su team.
Court Clears Taiwan’s Ma Ying-jeou of Charges
(AP, Dec. 28, 2007) Taiwan's High Court cleared opposition presidential
candidate Ma Ying-jeou of graft charges, securing a place for the former Taipei
mayor in the March presidential race. With the court's decision, the
57-year-old Ma is now free to press forward with his message of closer ties
with rival China and an improved Taiwanese economy in the run-up to the
presidential election.
Executive Yuan Issues Ultimatum on Voting System
(Taiwan News, Dec. 25, 2007) The Executive Yuan issued a final ultimatum to
the chairpersons or executive supervisors of city and county election
commissions to abide by the "single-stage" voting system for the
January 12 Legislative Yuan election or face immediate dismissal and possible
criminal prosecution.
DPP Candidate Says Taiwan 'on Path to Dignity'
(Taiwan News, Dec. 19, 2007) The Democratic Progressive Party presidential candidate
Frank Hsieh said in Tokyo that he hopes Taiwan will capitalize on its
"intelligent power" to become a "miracle maker" for world
peace. Hsieh said that as an independent country, Taiwan is seeking to join
the international community and hopes to win global recognition.
CEC Insists on One-Stop Ballots
(China Post, Dec. 19, 2007) Central Election Commission chairman Chang
Cheng-hsiung trumped his own secretary-general, a day after the latter
declared ballots distributed at two stops are just as valid as those issued
at one stop. Moreover, the outcome of elections in places where ballots are
distributed at two stops will be confirmed one week after the elections,
Chang announced.
NSB Chief Denies KMT Wiretapping Allegations
(TT, Dec. 18, 2007) National Security Bureau (NSB) chief Shi Hwei-yow said
that national security officials had not illegally monitored the opposition
parties.
Opposition Accuses Government of Bugging Its Campaign Offices (Taiwan News, Dec. 17,
2007) Taiwan's main opposition party yesterday accused the government of
bugging its offices to find out about its campaign strategy ahead of next
month's legislative elections.
DPP Chairman Denies Party Up to 'Dirty Tricks'
(Taiwan News, Dec. 16, 2007) Reports of a secret meeting on December 8
between Kuomintang vice presidential candidate Vincent Siew and American
Institute in Taiwan Chairman Raymond Burghardt gave rise to a war of words
between the ruling and opposition parties. The pan-blue camp accused the
pan-green parties of using dirty tricks during the election campaign.
Lee Severs Ties with Chen over Corruption Cases
(AFP,
Dec. 10, 2007) Former President Lee Teng-hui has broken ranks with former
ally and successor Chen Shui-bian , saying he was wrong to back him in 2004
and urged countrymen to oust his party from office.
Chen Retracts Threat of Martial Law for Taiwan
(Straits Times, Nov. 27, 2007) Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian said he was
mulling drastic measures - including imposing martial law - to resolve a
dispute over voting arrangements for the upcoming legislative and
presidential elections. But the Taiwanese leader swiftly retracted his threat
to declare martial law. Mr Chen's remarks have also fuelled fears that the
upcoming elections could prove to be highly contentious.
Chen Raises Martial Law Specter
(Taipei Times, Nov. 26, 2007) President Chen Shui-bian said that he was
seriously considering four suggestions if the 18 pan-blue controlled cities
and counties went through with their threat of implementing the two-step process.
The options are: implement martial law; invalidate the results of the
pan-blue controlled authorities; replace local election commission heads, or
get the CEC to delay the elections.
Taiwanese Parties Fight over Voting System for Jan Polls
(Straits Times, Nov. 24, 2007) ONE election, two systems? That is Taiwan's
latest political poser, as its main parties tussle over how voters should
cast their ballots in the legislative elections and two referendums scheduled
for Jan 12. The dispute revolves around whether the ballots for the polls
should be given together or separately to each voter.
Ma Rules Out Unification Talks with China
(TN, Nov. 23, 2007) The opposition Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou said in Japan that if he wins the presidential election next March,
he would not engage in talks with China on unification during his tenure,
reaffirming his stance on maintaining the status quo across the strait.
Ma Promises to Ease Tensions with China, Boost Japan Ties
(AFP,
Nov. 22, 2007) Taiwan's presidential hopeful Ma Ying-jeou said Wednesday he
would work to ease tensions with China while keeping friendly ties with Japan
if he is elected next year.
428 Candidate to Vie for 113 Legislative Seats: CEC
(China Post, Nov. 22, 2007) A total of 428 people from
13 parties are seeking to vie for the 113 seats up for grabs in the Jan. 12
legislative election, according to officials from the Central Election
Commission (CEC).
Ma Unveils Foreign Policy Paper, Departs for Japan
(China Post, Nov. 21, 2007) Opposition KMT presidential
candidate Ma Ying-jeou called for "flexible diplomacy" in defending
sovereignty and expanding bilateral relations, while he blamed the
"scorched earth diplomacy" of the ruling DPP for utterly isolating
Taiwan from international diplomacy.
Kuomintang Presidential Candidate Leading Poll by 15%
(China Post, Nov. 19, 2007) Taiwan's opposition presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou is leading his ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) opponent
Frank Hsieh by 15 percent in the latest opinion poll data, the Taipei-based
China Times reported. The paper, however, pointed out that 41 percent of the
respondents were undecided.
KMT Vows to Stick with Two-Stage Vote Process
(Taiwan News, Nov. 18, 2007) The opposition Kuomintang said it would have the
18 counties and cities it governs in Taiwan enforce a "two-stage voting
process" for the approaching legislative elections. KMT presidential
candidate Ma Ying-jeou voiced his support for his party's resolve on the
issue, saying a "two-step" arrangement could prevent possible chaos
at polling stations on January 12, 2008.
'One-Stop' Ballot Distribution Adopted
(China Post, Nov. 17, 2007) The Central Election Commission adopted a
controversial "one-stop" ballot distribution for legislative
elections scheduled to take place Jan. 12 next year. Under the newly-adopted
system, a voter is required to receive four blank ballots at one stop in a
polling station.
Chen, Hsieh Deny Split on China Policy
(Taipei Times, Nov. 14, 2007) President Chen Shui-bian and Democratic
Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Frank Hsieh dismissed
allegations that they were at odds over cross-strait economic policy. Asking
the public to refrain from taking "election talk" too seriously,
Chen said that Hsieh would not have made such remarks had Hsieh still been
the premier.
2008 Polls are about the Economy: AmCham Head
(China Post, Nov. 9, 2007) "It's all about the economy," said
Richard Vuylsteke, executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in
Taipei in response to a presentation given by DPP presidential candidate
Frank Hsieh to the members of AmCham.
Sparks Fly in Taiwan over
Torch Relay Plans
(AFP, Oct. 22, 2007) President Chen is scheduled to start the island-wide
relay from Taipei as part of his push for the poll to be held alongside
presidential elections on March 22. However, the city's mayor Hau Long-bin,
from the leading opposition Kuomintang, has asked the DPP to apply for legal
permission as it is a political event, a request that has been roundly
ignored by Mr Chen. 'I'll be the first one to start the torch relay as
scheduled. Come and get me, if he (Hau) dares,' the President told a group of
supporters.
Ma Declares Future of Taiwan
Should Not Be Decided by China
(Taiwan
News, Oct. 16, 2007) It
is up to the people of Taiwan - and not China - to decide the island's future,
opposition Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou said.
Hsieh, Ma Trade Barbs over
Nation's Priorities
(Taiwan News, Oct. 14, 2007) Strong words have been exchanged between
President Chen Shui-bian, ruling Democratic Progressive Party presidential
candidate Frank Hsieh, and opposition Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou over the topics of Taiwan's referendum on the U.N. bid and the
nation's economy.
Hsieh Explains Absence on
Blog
(Taipei Times, Oct. 10, 2007) Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential
candidate Frank Hsieh's absence from campaign activities has mystified the
ruling and opposition parties, despite his explanation in a video message
posted on his Web log. Hsieh has
canceled all campaign activities since Sept. 28 -- the 21st anniversary of
the founding of the DPP.
Kuomintang Vice Presidential
Candidate Siew Visits United States Congress (CNA, Oct. 5, 2007) The
opposition Kuomintang's vice presidential candidate, Vincent Siew, visited
the U.S. Congress on the first day of his visit to America, with an aim of
strengthening bilateral relations.
Ma Challenges
Hsieh's Pledge on Links
(CNA, Sep. 26, 2007) Opposition Kuomintang presidential candidate Ma
Ying-jeou urged Frank Hsieh, his ruling Democratic Progressive Party rival,
not to deviate from his China links proposal to placate "deep
green" voters.
Hsieh to Promote New
Patriotic Plan
(CNA, Sep. 26, 2007) The campaign office of Frank Hsieh, presidential
candidate of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, announced that it will
promote a new patriotic movement through a "Taiwan reform" camp.
Ma Attacks Hsieh over
'Republic of Taiwan'
(Taipei Times, Sep. 6, 2007) Kuomintang
(KMT) presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou ridiculed his Democratic
Progressive Party (DPP) counterpart for saying that he is running for the
president of the Republic of Taiwan, condemning Frank Hsieh for setting a bad example by refusing to
acknowledge his own country.
Taiwan
Prosecutors Appeal Acquittal of Opposition Leader
(AFP,, Aug. 19, 2007) Prosecutors
in Taiwan have appealed
the acquittal of the main opposition's presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou on
corruption charges. Ma repeatedly denied the charges, insisting he acted in
exactly the same way as some 6,500 other government chiefs entitled to
special expenses.
Taiwan's Ma Acquitted of Fraud Charge
(Bloomberg, Aug. 14, 2007) Ma
Ying-jeou, the presidential candidate of Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang, was
cleared by a Taipei District Court today of fraud charges that could have
derailed his campaign for the March 2008 election.
Hsieh Asks Su To Be His Running Mate
(Taipei Times, Aug. 13, 2007) Democratic
Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Frank Hsieh, who is visiting
Singapore, confirmed that he has invited former premier Su Tseng-chang to be
his running mate.
Chen Voices Fears about Judiciary's Intervention
(Taipei Times, July 31, 2007) President Chen Shui-bian expressed apprehension
over the intervention of the judiciary in the upcoming presidential election
as the presidential candidates of both the Democratic Progressive Party and
the Kuomintang (KMT) fight allegations of corruption.
Hsieh Meets with Colin Powell
(CNA, July 27, 2007) Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)
presidential candidate Frank Hsieh met with former U.S. Secretary of State
Colin Powell in Washington, D.C. Wednesday. According to Hsieh, Powell
reiterated during the meeting that the U.S. policy remains that Washington
opposes any unilateral action to change the status quo across the Taiwan
Strait. However, Hsieh admitted that there are differences between Taiwan and
the United States over the definition of the "status quo."
Hsieh Pans 'Cross-Strait Common Market' Policy
(Taipei Times, July 23, 2007) Visiting Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)
presidential candidate Frank Hsieh panned a "cross-strait common
market" concept advocated by the Kuomintang (KMT) vice presidential
candidate as "ridiculously unrealistic."
Official
Washington Eager to Size Up Hsieh
(Taipei Times, July 21, 2007) Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential
candidate Frank Hsieh left for the US yesterday on a visit that will give him
and US officials the chance to size each other up.
Ma, Hsieh Trade Barbs on Taiwan History
(Taiwan News, July 10, 2007) Taiwan's two major candidates in the upcoming
presidential election highlighted different views of Taiwan's history of
colonial and external rule in their first face-to-face exchange.
Presidential, Legislative Polls To Be Held on Separate Dates
(Taiwan News, July 7, 2007) The
Central Election Commission has decided to hold two national elections that
are expected to have large impacts on Taiwan's political situation at
different times in the coming year because of the lack of a consensus among
the political parties and the general public.
KMT to Hold Referendum on UN Bid
(Taipei Times, June 29, 2007) The
Kuomintang (KMT) said it would push for a referendum on the country's bid to
join the UN and other international organizations under a
"practical" name and flexible strategy that would increase the
nation's chances of being accepted in more international organizations.
Ma Reiterates Mission to Save Taiwan's Economy
(China Post, June 26, 2007) Ma unveiled four concrete measures to stimulate
Taiwan's economic development, including: revitalizing the service sector and
traditional industries to create 100,000 more job opportunities; using an excellent
living climate to attract talent from around the world to help develop Taiwan
into a strong economic entity; and building Taiwan as a free trade area,
among others.
KMT Revises Nomination Charter
(Taiwan News, June 25, 2007) The main opposition Kuomintang revised its party
charter to prevent a potential guilty verdict in an embezzlement trial from
blocking its presidential nominee Ma Ying-jeou's presidential bid.
Support Surges for Taiwan Opposition's Presidential Candidate
(Deutsche
Presse-Agentur, June 24, 2007) A China Times poll of 700 adults showed that
support for the KMT party's candidate has risen 8 percentage points to 40 per
cent, from 32 per cent in late May. Support for Frank Hsieh, the ruling DPP
party's presidential candidate, remains at about 20 per cent.
Taiwan's Ma Ying-jeou Chooses Siew as Running Mate
(Bloomberg,
June 23, 2007)
Taiwan's
Kuomintang party candidate Ma Ying-jeou announced Vincent Siew as his running
mate for next year's presidential election. Siew, 68, was premier of Taiwan
from 1997 until 2000. Siew founded Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation, a
non- government organization promoting removal of economic barriers with the
mainland.
KMT Presidential Candidate Arrives in New Delhi for Visit
(CNA, June 13, 2007) Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) presidential
candidate Ma Ying-jeou arrived in New Delhi for a whirlwind two-day visit at
the invitation of the Indian government.
Taiwan Candidates Differ on Chinese Views toward Island
(AP, June 12, 2007) Taiwan's presidential candidates pledged Monday to work
for better relations with rival China, but differed markedly on whether
Beijing would prove receptive to their overtures.
Taiwan Ruling Party to Stir China with Three Referenda
(Reuters, June 6, 2007) The ruling political party will attempt three voter
referenda and pursue other reforms to advance the island's independence from
China and rewrite its history, the party chief said.
Wang Rejects Offer to be Ma's Running Mate
(Straits Times, June 1, 2007) Ending months of speculation, Taiwan's
Parliament Speaker Wang Jin-pyng formally rejected an offer from the main
opposition Kuomintang (KMT) to be its vice-presidential candidate.
Ma Ends Islandwide Biking Trip
(China Post, May 21, 2007) Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) candidate for the 2008
presidential race Ma Ying-jeou yesterday wound up his 675-kilometer
south-north biking trip after reaching Fu Kuei Cape on the northern tip of
the island.
DPP Unveils Legislative Line-Up
(Taipei Times, May 18, 2007) The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) unveiled
its legislator-at-large line-up yesterday, revealing that three contenders
who have been labeled and boycotted by a group of deep-green supporters as
"DPP bandits" are no longer shoo-ins for the seats.
DPP Task Force to Draft 'Normal Country' Resolution
(Taiwan News, May 17, 2007) The leading policy-making body of the governing
Democratic Progressive Party yesterday established a seven-person task force
to draft a proposed "normal country" resolution.
DPP to Push 'Normal Nation Resolution'
(China Post, May 11, 2007) The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will set up
a task force next week to draw up the ruling party's "normal nation
resolution" in a move to redefine the DPP policy concerning the nation's
status. The
"normal nation resolution" is seen by analysts as a move by DPP
Chairman Yu Shyi-kun to exert pressure on former Premier Frank Hsieh.
DPP Heavyweights Rally Behind Hsieh
(Taiwan News May 8, 2007) The leadership of the Democratic Progressive Party,
including Vice President Annette Lu, Premier Su Tseng-chang and DPP Chairman
Yu Shyi-kun, declared their support for the nomination of former Premier
Frank Hsieh as the governing party's standard-bearer in next year's
presidential election.
Hsieh Wins DPP Member Primary Vote
(Taiwan News, May 7, 2007) Former Premier Frank Hsieh won a decisive victory
in primary voting by members of the Democratic Progressive Party and appears
to have secured the governing party's nomination in the upcoming presidential
election.
AIT Head Says US Has No Favorite
(Taipei Times, May 4, 2007) American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Director
Stephen Young said that the US had no preference for any candidate for next
year's presidential election and would continue to work with the next
president.
KMT Nominates Ma to Run for President
(AFP, May 3, 2007) Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) nominated former
chairman Ma Ying-jeou to run for the 2008 presidential election.
KMT Lawmakers Sue 102 Cabinet Members over Special Allowance Funds
(CNA, May 2, 2007) A group of opposition
Kuomintang (KMT) lawmakers yesterday initiated a lawsuit against 102 former
and incumbent Cabinet members with the Supreme Prosecutors Office, seeking a
probe into their alleged misuse of "special allowance funds" that
have become controversial since former KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou's indictment
in mid-February for the same reason.
KMT Paying Price for Helping Ma
(China Post, Apr. 23, 2007) The Kuomintang is paying the price for much
needed support in the Legislative Yuan to stall a Democratic Progressive
Party-sponsored bill to stop its former chairman Ma Ying-jeou from running
for president.
DPP Wants to Combine Referendum, Elections
(Taiwan News, Apr. 17, 2007) The ruling Democratic Progressive Party
announced that the DPP has been striving to put the issues of recovering
ill-gotten party assets and using the name of "Taiwan" to apply for
the U.N. membership to a referendum as well as pushing for a three-way
combination of the presidential election, the legislative election and the
referendum.
Taiwan Opposition Leader on
Trial
(BBC,
Apr. 3, 2007) Taiwan opposition leader and presidential hopeful Ma Ying-jeou
has gone on trial in a corruption case which could hit his 2008 hopes.
Wang will not Participate in
Primaries
(China
Post, Apr. 3, 2007) Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng held a press conference
and said that he will not participate in the Kuomintang presidential
primaries, saying that the primaries cannot be a fair competition as it is
tailored for specific individuals.
Ma Says Conviction Will Not
Derail Presidential Bid
(Taiwan
News, Apr. 2, 2007) Former Kuomintang Chairman Ma Ying-jeou said he would
continue his presidential bid even if he is convicted of embezzlement in his
trial set to begin April 3.
KMT Rallies to Defend
Chiang's Contribution
(China
Post, Apr. 1, 2007) The main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) staged a march in
Taipei near the Presidential Office to protest a government campaign
attacking the legacy of late President Chiang Kai-shek.
DPP Finalizes Design for
Primary Poll
(Taipei
Times, Mar. 29, 2007) The proposal was designed to exclude voters from the
primary poll who would never vote for the DPP in the presidential election
while surveying pan-green and swing voters.
Prosecutors Clear Tainan Mayor
(China Post, Mar. 13, 2007) Taiwan prosecutors resolved not to indict
incumbent Tainan mayor Hsu Tain-tsair because prosecutors didn't care about
how the mayor utilized those special allowance funds requiring no invoices or
receipts to claim. This was in sharp contrast to the indictment made by
Taipei prosecutors against former Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou.
DPP to Use Exclusionary Polling System
(Taipei Times, Mar. 8, 2007) The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) said it
would only be polling loyalists and weed out 'light blue' elements for the
legislator-at-large primaries to ensure that the nominees reflect the party's
ideology.
Lu, Su also Faced with Gund Controversies
(China Post, Mar. 2, 2007) Both Vice President Annette Lu and Premier Su
Tseng-chang could face barriers in their presidential bids following the
disclosure of their spending of part of their special expense allowance on
household purchases.
Opposition Politician Wins Libel Suit against Taiwan's President
(AFP, Feb. 16, 2007) James Soong won a libel suit over President Chen
Shui-bian's claims that he had met secretly with a Chinese official. A Taipei
District Court judge ordered Chen to pay three million Taiwan dollars in
damages and run apologies on the front page of three newspapers.
DPP's 'Four Heavenly Kings' Face Graft Probe
(Reuters, Feb. 15, 2007) Four leading members of Taiwan's ruling party,
including Vice-President Annette Lu, will be investigated for corruption, a
prosecutor's office said yesterday, a day after the head of the main
opposition party was charged with graft.
Ma's Popularity Goes Up, Despite Corruption Indictment
(AFP, Feb. 14, 2007) Resigned opposition leader Ma Ying-jeou's popularity has
shot up, two surveys said, despite Taiwanese prosecutors indicting him on
corruption charges.
Taiwan Opposition Leader Resigns
(BBC, Feb. 13, 2007) The leader of Taiwan's main opposition party has stepped
down following an indictment on charges of corruption. However, he
immediately vowed to clear his name and said he would run in the 2008
presidential election.
Taiwan Opposition Leader Faces Corruption Charges
(New York Times, Feb. 13, 2007) Corruption charges were filed against Ma
Ying-jeou, the leader of Taiwan’s main opposition party who has been seen as
a leading presidential candidate in 2008.
Ma Affirms Promise to Quit If Indicted
(Taiwan News, Feb. 10, 2007) Opposition Kuomintang Chairman Ma Ying-jeou said
that he never embezzled any public funds or used any money that was not his
since he began working in the government. Nevertheless, Ma said, he would
resign from the KMT chairmanship if he is indicted on corruption charges.
Ma Lays into DPP in CNN
Interview
(Taipei Times, Feb. 4, 2007) Ma Ying-jeou reiterated the KMT's support for
maintaining the status quo and said the ruling party's independence stance
endangered the nation. "We will maintain the autonomy of the island, maintain our
dignity as a sovereignty, but we should improve relations with the
mainland," Ma said.
Ma Admits Graft
Allegations Have Hurt Him
(China Post, Feb. 4, 2007) Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Ma Ying-jeou has
admitted that the embezzlement allegations against him have hurt his image
and that of the party's. He said the issue concerning his alleged misuse of
the mayor's special expenses involves more than 6,500 administrators in
Taiwan who are also allocated such special expenses for public relations
purposes.
Taiwan’s 2008 Presidential
Election By Kerry Dumbaugh
(CRS Report, Apr. 2008) In a large turnout on March 22, 2008, voters in
Taiwan elected as president Mr. Ma Ying-jeou. Ma has promised to improve
Taiwan’s economic performance, to improve Taiwan’s damaged relations with the
PRC, and to address any annoyances in Taiwan-U.S. relations arising from the
Chen Administration.
Taiwan's Poll Result Offers
Hope for Peace with China By Minxin Pei
(Financial Times, Mar. 27, 2008) The resounding
victory of Taiwan's opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), in last
Saturday's presidential election has raised hopes for a new era of stability
across the Taiwan Strait.
Relief in U.S. over Taiwan
Election Result
(AP, Mar. 26, 2008) After eight years of often strained U.S. Taiwan
relations, the United States is welcoming with relief Taiwan voters' choice
of a president committed to engage, not antagonize, rival China.
Test in Taiwan
(Editorial, Washington Post, Mar. 25, 2008) Democracy has produced a
government more favorable to Beijing -- which now must deliver on the promise
of better relations. It now will be up to Mr. Hu to show that Beijing can
strike such deals with Taipei without demanding that it sacrifice its de
facto independence.
Taiwan's Chance to Expand
Its Vision By Philip Bowring
(International Herald Tribune, Mar. 24, 2008) Outsiders tend to look at
Taiwan entirely in terms of its relations with mainland China. But Taiwan's
politics are driven more by domestic issues. Chen's vision was narrow. Ma now
has four years to prove that he can exploit a window of opportunity to use
closer cross-strait links to underpin, not undermine, Taiwan's status.
Taiwan Ruling Party Faces Overhaul
after Poll Debacles
(AFP, Mar. 24, 2008) Taiwan's outgoing ruling party must soften its
pro-independence rhetoric and hand power to a younger generation if it is to
regain trust after two election debacles, lawmakers and analysts say.
Taiwan's Governing Party
Fears It Has Lost Youth Vote By Jonathan Adams (International Herald
Tribune, Mar. 19, 2008) With the presidential election set for Saturday, the
youth vote has become a focus - and the pro-independence Democratic
Progressive Party is worried that many of its young former supporters may
have turned against it.
China-Taiwan Troubles Reach
'Sensitive' Stage
(Canwest News, Mar. 18, 2008) With the crisis in Tibet still on the boil,
China now faces problems in Taiwan that Premier Wen Jiabao admitted Tuesday
had reached the "sensitive" stage.
Campaign Excesses Prompt
Concerns over Democracy in Taiwan
(Vancouver Sun, Mar. 17, 2008) The incivility,
muckraking and all-round excesses of the Taiwanese presidential election
campaign, which ends with Saturday's vote, is causing concerns over the
future of democracy in the country.
No Dramatic Thaw with China
Likely after Taiwan Poll
(Reuters, Mar. 16, 2008) Both Taiwan presidential candidates promise better ties with China, but whoever wins, chances of
a dramatic or quick thaw in ties are unlikely as sensitive political problems
will be tricky to tackle.
Foreign Policy Debated as Ma, Hsieh
Square Off
(China Post, Mar. 10, 2008) Frank Hsieh promised yesterday Taiwan would not
pay "extortion money" to keep diplomatic allies, if he were elected
president. In answer to the same question, Ma only said he would continue
foreign assistance but also ensure that no money would go to line the pockets
of unscrupulous politicians.
Taiwan Vote Could Offer New
Start for Frayed U.S. Ties
(Reuters, Mar. 7, 2008) When Taiwan voters elect a successor to President Chen Shui-bian later this
month, their self-ruled island will get a fresh start in vital ties with the
United States that have deteriorated on Chen's watch.
Old Allegiances Fade as
Taiwan Heads for the Polls
(Reuters, Mar. 6, 2008) As the island heads for a presidential election on
March 22, old allegiances based on how people felt about China are fading and
a new generation of voters are looking to their wallets.
Are Electoral Promises
Meaningful? By Wang Yeh-lih
(Taipei
Times, Feb. 18, 2008) The first televised debate in preparation for the March
22 presidential election, in which the public will have an opportunity to ask
questions to the candidates, will take place on Sunday. Regardless of how
many concrete promises the two candidates make in the televised debate, the
question is, what are the chances that these policy promises really will be
implemented?
Latest Dispute over US Residency 'Could Hurt Ma's
Presidential Bid' By Lawrence
Chung (South China Morning Post, Jan. 30,
2008) Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang presidential candidate, Ma Ying-jeou,
has been revisited by a controversy over US residency that pundits say could
dearly cost him. Although most analysts put Mr Ma ahead following his party's
landslide win in this month's legislative elections, he has been plunged into
a predicament that has put his integrity and ability to manage a crisis under
scrutiny.
Frank Hsieh and Ma Ying-jeous’ Policy Platform
(Straits Times, Jan. 28, 2008) Frank Hsieh’s Policy Platform Taiwan's
political status: No need to declare independence as Taiwan is already
independent. Resume dialogue with China. Cross-strait economic ties: Allow
daily charter flights, to up to 20 Chinese cities, but no timeframe has been
stated. Currently, charter flights from Taiwan to four Chinese cities are
allowed on four key holidays.
Taiwan's Elections: Change, Continuity
(China Post, Jan. 28, 2008) While the Kuomintang has a very good chance at
winning the March presidential election, don't write off the Democratic
Progressive Party just yet, said Philip Yang, a professor in the department
of Political Science at National Taiwan University. If the KMT does win, he
said, expectations will be high. "It will need to deliver, and fast.
Taiwan Election Could Bring Diplomacy
(The Age, Jan. 25, 2008) The election of a new government in Taiwan could
signal an end to "dollar diplomacy" in the Pacific. Yang Li-Huan, a
Kuomintang (KMT) member of Taiwan's Legislative Yuan, has told Pacific
magazine the rise to power of her party in elections could end competition
between Taiwan and China for influence in the Pacific.
Taiwan's Democratic Lesson
(Editorial, Washington Post, Jan. 21, 2008) Taiwan is providing an example of
democracy's virtue. Chen Shui-bian, the island's twice-elected president,
long ago wore out his welcome with voters; during his eight years in office,
economic growth has lagged and corruption has flourished, while Mr. Chen's
aggressive and occasionally cynical promotion of the cause of Taiwanese
independence has backfired.
Taiwan's Economic Prospects Look Up after Election
(Reuters, Jan. 18, 2008) Taiwan's economic prospects could well improve
following legislative elections, as a resounding win for the main opposition
Nationalist Party points to closer trade ties with China. Taiwan's
stock market and the local currency both rallied strongly after Saturday's
election.
Taiwanese Voters May Ignore UN Referendum
(Straits Times, Jan. 16, 2008) Two referendums held alongside last Saturday's
legislative elections were largely ignored by Taiwanese voters. The lack of
voter interest suggests to some observers that a controversial referendum
proposed by President Chen Shui-bian could meet the same fate during the
March presidential election.
DPP Needs a New Way of Defining Localization By Chen Fang-ming
(Taipei
Times, Jan 16, 2008) The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has suffered a serious
defeat. The loss was inevitable; the signs were already in place four years
ago. Both the nomination and campaign strategies were thus flawed, resulting
in a resounding defeat.
DPP Still in the Game Despite Huge Setback By Ong Hwee Hwee
(Straits Times, Jan. 14, 2008) The game is not over yet for the party. A
close scrutiny of the election figures shows that its core support base is
still intact. Besides, the presidential poll is decided by the entire
electorate of Taiwan, unlike the legislative race, in which the pro-DPP
constituency was massively segmented.
Taiwan Election May Ease Tensions With China By David Lague
(New York Times, Jan. 14, 2008) The landslide victory for the opposition
Kuomintang in Taiwan’s parliamentary elections could sharply reduce the
political influence of President Chen Shui-bian, who has antagonized China
and frustrated the United States with his efforts to forge a strong national
identity for Taiwan.
Despite Victory, Taiwanese Party Urges Caution
(Washington Post, Jan. 14, 2008) The Nationalist presidential candidate, Ma
Ying-jeou, presided somber-faced over a subdued victory ceremony, repeatedly
invoking the need to be "humble" and "cautious" in the
two months remaining until Taiwanese voters go back to the polls to replace
President Chen Shui-bian.
Opposition in Taiwan Secures Major Win in Legislative Polling By Edward Cody (Washington Post, Jan. 13, 2008)
The opposition Nationalist party scored an overwhelming victory in Taiwan's
legislative elections, in a repudiation of President Chen Shui-bian's
confrontational drive to push this self-ruled island along the road toward
formal independence.
Taiwan Voters Still Confused By Ong Hwee Hwee
(Straits Times, Jan. 11, 2008) Even in an island where elections take place
almost every other year, experienced Taiwanese voters are scratching their
heads over new electoral rules which will apply for the first time. Several
major changes will take effect concurrently, namely the implementation of the
'single-member district, two ballots' electoral system.
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