| Recommendations from the Presbyterian
Church in Taiwan Concerning the Present Situation
15 May 1990
We believe that a homeland and human
rights are given by God.
Therefore, love for our homeland and
active concern for Taiwan's future lie deeply in the heart of our church. Viewing the
current situation of administrative crisis caused by the political divisions in Taiwan, we
believe that Taiwan will face increasing difficulties in the future. The Presbyterian
Church, out of concern for the situation facing Taiwan, solemnly issues these
recommendations:
- The government of Taiwan cannot represent mainland China.
The ruling party must recognize the fact that it does not exercise political authority
over the mainland; and must very soon announce the end of "The Period of Communist
Rebellion", rescind the "Temporary Provisions Effective During the Period of
Communist Rebellion" and cease using the Constitution of the Republic of China.
In order that democratic constitutional rule may truly take root in
Taiwan, we insist that this be accomplished within one year: that the people of Taiwan
(including Aborigines, Hok-lo [Taiwanese speaking people], Hakka, and Mainlanders) govern
themselves; that Taiwan and its related islands be the limits of the area governed; that
there be a new Constitution to resolve the ambiguities that now exist between central and
regional governments; that the structure of the National Assembly be changed, that the
Judiciary be independent; and that other problems be resolved. We also call for the
election of a new national legislature in accordance with a new Constitution and the
organization of a new government.
- China does not include Taiwan. The present and future of
Taiwan do not belong to China. The governance and land of Taiwan belong only to the people
of Taiwan. Cultural, athletic, economic and other kinds of interchange between Taiwan and
China must be based on this kind of foundation. We earnestly hope that with independent
self-rule, the relationship between Taiwan and China can be to the mutual advantage of
both; that in foreign affairs there be mutual recognition, and that with trust there will
be benefits for each so that both may exist and prosper side by side.
- In order to promote social justice and harmony, we
earnestly appeal to President LEE Teng-hui to release all political
prisoners without delay and to restore to them their civil and professional rights.
- President Lee's recent administrative acts are at variance
with the will of the people: especially the nomination of a military figure, General HAU
Pei-tsun, to be Premier. General Hau's nomination is a step backwards in constitutional
rule, and is contradictory to the world-wide movement towards greater democracy. It has
already created fear and the loss of morale among the people. We urgently appeal to
President Lee to identify himself with the people and land of Taiwan, to govern for the
citizens of Taiwan and name a different and suitable political figure to organize the
makeup of the Cabinet, in order to remove the doubts and fears of the people, to help
increase democratization and to improve Taiwan's international status.
H. L. Chih
Moderator of the General Assembly
C. S. Yang
Secretary-General
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