Letter: Chen good for China

I wonder what the goal of the pro-unification camp is in seeking the recall of President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁). The four noes pledge was made by President Chen, not the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). So if the recall succeeds and Chen steps down, then there is nothing binding that could stop the DPP from doing anything. If Chen steps down, then his party will no longer be constrained from amending the Constitution.

In my view, it would be in China's best interests for Chen to stay in power as long as possible. If Chen stays in power, he and the rest of the government's hands would be tied.

I cannot see any benefit to pro-China supporters for Chen to step down. It seems that they are shooting themselves in the foot by calling on Chen to step down.

And have to ask, if Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Chairman Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) and former DPP chairman Shih Ming-teh (施明德) are all for anti-corruption, why isn't the red army massing in Keelung over its venal mayor?

I was also told something interesting recently, although I'm not sure if it's true or not: If someone is being investigated, he or she cannot campaign for government. If that's the case, maybe the DPP should file suit against Ma and other KMT and People First Party candidates allegedly involved in corruption just before the elections. In theory that would prevent them from running, wouldn't it?

Michael Gruber
Australia