As Taiwan celebrated the inauguration of its new president, Lai Ching-te, China’s censorship machine went into overdrive. The event marked the start of Mr. Lai’s tenure as the 16th-term President of the Republic of China (ROC) and the Democratic Progressive Party’s third consecutive term in office. Despite Beijing’s attempts to suppress coverage, former Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials expressed their admiration for Taiwan’s democratic process and the vibrant political discourse on the self-governing island.
A Smooth Transition Amid Tensions
Beijing’s reaction to Mr. Lai’s address was predictably stern. On May 21, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Chinese State Council, condemned Mr. Lai’s speech, accusing him of maintaining a separatist stance with foreign support. State media in China also launched widespread attacks on Mr. Lai’s address.Despite the criticisms, Mr. Du believed Beijing was not overly concerned with Mr. Lai’s statements. “President Lai’s statements were quite moderate, and Beijing probably isn’t too worried, believing they have the situation under control,” Mr. Du said.
He added that Mr. Lai’s speech was consistent with the position of former President Tsai Ing-wen, emphasizing that the ROC’s stance is not pro-independence but a continuation of historical facts.
Divided Opinions on Military Action
Mr. Lai’s inauguration speech underscored the principle of mutual non-subordination across the Taiwan Strait, advocating for maintaining the status quo and urging the CCP to halt its hostile actions. “In the face of various threats and infiltrations from China (the CCP), we must demonstrate our resolve to defend our nation,” Mr. Lai declared.
Mr. Du highlighted ongoing debates within the CCP about the feasibility of a military conquest of Taiwan. “There has always been significant debate within CCP political circles about resolving the Taiwan issue militarily. One view holds that attacking Taiwan would entail immense political and economic costs, which are not in the Communist Party’s best interests.”
Another faction believes in the necessity of military action, arguing that delaying would only increase resistance as Taiwan integrates further into the international community.
Unification and Democratization
In his speech, Mr. Lai expressed a desire for the CCP to recognize the ROC’s existence, respect the choices of the Taiwanese people, and engage sincerely with Taiwan’s democratically elected government. He advocated for dialogue over confrontation, suggesting resuming bilateral tourism and student exchanges as initial steps.Mr. Du remains skeptical of such overtures leading to meaningful negotiations. “The CCP only believes in ‘political power grows out of the barrel of a gun.’ Negotiations would only happen under conditions of siege,” he said.
He suggested that peaceful unification is only possible if China democratizes, thus eliminating political and ideological differences.
Wang Deng (pseudonym), a Chinese law scholar, echoed this sentiment, noting that the CCP’s intolerance of democratic Taiwan and Hong Kong underscores its totalitarian nature.
Taiwan as a Democratic Model
Mr. Lai’s commitment to aligning Taiwan with democratic nations continues the path set by his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen. “In a democratic society, the people’s interests come first; this is the essence of democracy,” Mr. Lai stated, emphasizing Taiwan’s dedication to protecting democracy from external influences.Mr. Wang remarked on Taiwan’s democratic evolution since Lee Teng-hui was elected president by popular vote in 1996. “Taiwan’s democracy has largely matured, though there is still room for improvement, particularly regarding rational debate within Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan.”
Eric (pseudonym), a former secret police officer from China’s Political Security Bureau who fled to Australia, shared his insights. “Taiwan’s journey towards democracy has faced challenges but remains a pioneering example for the Chinese-speaking world. Democracy is perfected through debate.”
Taiwan’s experience offers a significant reference point for democratic reforms within the Chinese cultural context. Its position as a “beacon of democracy” underscores its strategic and symbolic importance in the broader struggle against authoritarianism.
“Taiwan is a thorn in the side of the mainland (CCP), both a model and a contrast. It could potentially become the grave digger of the regime in the future,” Eric added.
