Taiwan strips Chiang Kai-shek´s name from memorial

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-21-2007 15:18

A statue of late Nationalist leader Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek is displayed in a park in Taoyuan county March 22, 2007. REUTERS/Richard Chung/Files

Authorities in Taiwan have unveiled a plaque at the newly renamed Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall.

Formerly the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the well-known building was erected almost three decades ago. Former Kuomintang Chairman, Ma Ying-jeou, says the timing is sensitive and the motive is questionable.

Taiwan residents have expressed regret over Chen Shui-bian's high-profile move to change the name of the hall.

Former Kuomintang Chairman, Ma Ying-jeou, says Taiwan authorities are putting the cart before the horse.

Ma Ying-jeou said, "The authorities just waste time and effort over these issues instead of considering an effective way to promote Taiwan's economy."

Ma has also questioned the motive behind Chen Shui-bian's timing in renaming the hall.

Ma said, "I think the Taiwan leader should stand as a symbol of unity amongst people rather than a source of separation."

A descendant of Chiang Kai-shek says Chen Shui-bian's move is political manipulation because Taiwan will be holding local elections this year.

A Taiwan-based association has described the renaming as fooling the Taiwan public, with the authorities of the Democratic Progressive Party attempting to deceive its supporters by changing the name of the memorial.

The recent revisionism began with the removal of Chiang statues from public places across the island.

Editor:Du Xiaodan