There is a curious similarity between Soong's and Clinton's responses. Each and every lie they tell is true; they do not say what is not true. But then, there is always something else behind what they say. Every sentence is a trap and needs to be deconstructed if one is to understand it. Whatever they omit has to be viewed with suspicion. In a sense, being with these people can be rather tiring because you must constantly keep up your guard.
Money disputes are a legal affair. But honesty is a matter of personality and character. These two are now inextricably intertwined in the scandal. Soong is now trying to squirm his way out of it by turning it into a plain legal issue. Soong's people have put together a large group of lawyers for this purpose.
In fact, the crux of the problem is about honesty and trust-worthiness, about whether or not a presidential candidate is worthy of public trust. After we have identified the question, finding an answer will be much easier.
Antonio Chiang is editor in chief of the Taipei Times.
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