Thursday, September 24, 2009

Chen, Still Detained

Nothing new here, as the Taiwan High Court ruled to extend Chen Shui-bian's dentention another 3 months, citing the same reasons as before- flee candidate, colluding with suspects, destroying evidence. All of these reasons are ridiculous, especially when you consider how well Taiwan media can track daughters of ex-presidents. If they want to keep an eye on you, they will.

As there are still reports of protests and gatherings outside the Judicial Yuan against the ruling, I'd like to point out that there are three main sides of this debacle that should be noted. There's one side of the protests that are likely calling for Chen to be released as the ruling was unfair, and the way the case has been handled goes against democracy, due process, and human rights. On the other hand, there are those that believe Chen is innocent. Lastly, there are those that believe he's guilty. Regardless of whether you believe he is innocent or guilty, everyone should support democracy, due process, and human rights. That is where I believe most of the protests are coming from, and rightfully so.

We can support the release of Chen Shui-bian, without supporting the actions he may have or may have not committed, so as to defend Taiwan's democracy and human rights.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

There is an interesting new development in this case. Mr. Chen has hired a lawyer to sue the US government in the hope of obtaining his own release from detention.

His lawsuit is based on the theory that Taiwan is still occupied territory, and not yet an independent nation. (The USA does not consider Taiwan an independent nation.) The "principal occupying power," as specified in the Senate-ratified San Francisco Peace Treaty, is the United States of America.

More details on Chen's legal maneuvers in the USA are at -- http://www.taiwanbasic.com/court/

Richard said...

Thanks for that point. Indeed this was a new development, but something that I think is not worthy towards Chen's case. The U.S. is obviously not in a position to make a decision or likely even hear this case as it would have profound impacts on U.S.-China relations.

Chen should focus on his own case at home than trying to conjure up more press (negative I must say). It's too hypocritical for the Roger Lin theory to be upheld by most Taiwanese. We are after self-determination, not a future determined by China, nor U.S.