Change of Governing Parties: The Prelude to Reform

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One year ago, Taiwan's democracy advanced markedly with the historic change of governing party. This was not only the first peaceful change of governing party in the history of Chinese communities, but also a model of the third wave of democracy worldwide. President Chen Shui-bian stated in his inaugural speech that it was "the beginning of a new era." He also appealed Taiwan to "stand up and greet the advancing new era."

The First Time in 50 Years
The new era is an era of reform. The change of governing party, the first in 50 years, is not the culmination of reform, but the beginning of a long and arduous process.

The change of power is a new beginning, but beginners need to temper themselves. Although the people made the choice for a thorough reform, they knew it was unreasonable to expect immediate results. Problems, which accumulated over the years, need new methods for resolution, and this takes time.

Taiwan Must Progress
People chose President Chen Shui-bian, not because he is a superman, but because his words and efforts for reform are sincere and resolute. Ten years ago, Taipei's traffic was chaotic. Chen insisted on the construction of the special reverse-direction lanes for buses. In addition, a mass rapid transit line was completed each year. Now, Taipei residents can ride the metro daily. In 20 minutes, they can travel from the Taipei Main Station to Peitou.

A-bian helped Taipei get moving, and people in Taiwan hope that he can ensure such progress for all of Taiwan. The Kaohsiung MRT and the High-speed Railway will speed transportation. North-south travel will be reduced from four hours to two hours. By improving transportation, President Chen will enhance the modernization of Taiwan.

Meeting New Challenges
Since the new administration took office, it seems that there have been a series of crises. Taiwan's industrial transformation and the global recession have caused an economic crisis. Reform in politics has changed the old order, and a new order has not yet been achieved. Consequently a certain degree of disorder is unavoidable. The administration welcomes and modestly accepts appropriate criticism; however, the government will definitely continue the reformation process.

All great reforms were instituted under crisis. During the Great Depression, the unemployment rate reached 25 percent. President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented the New Deal policy, which laid a foundation for the American economic and social system for the following several decades. For many years, unsolved problems, such as improper bank loans, organized crime, and corruption at private schools, accumulated. Under the open system of the new administration, these problems have been unveiled in order to find methods of eliminating these difficulties. Thus, crisis has become the motivation for finding a cure.

Progress Despite Disorder
The new administration is not burdened by past decisions. Enthusiasm, sincerity, "pure and fresh" background, and popular support, enable the new administration to implement reform. The new administration thoroughly understands the expectations of the people as prudently and consistently implements policy.

Over the last year, the new administration has made significant achievements, despite political disorder, particularly in consolidating democracy and stabilizing cross-strait relations. In addition, the public has praised the new administration's progress in eliminating organized crime and eradicating malpractice. These achievements have laid a solid foundation for the new government's bright future.

This publication is a brief report on the first year of the new administration.