Bumbler outrage misplaced
I watched the cacophony of responses over the article in The Economist titled “Ma the bumbler” with great amusement. There has been considerable debate over the most appropriate translation of the word “bumbler.”
Some maintain that because President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) is ill-intentioned, “bumbler” is not the appropriate word to use.
Not surprisingly, some Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) members scrambled to defend their Great Leader, “the Bumbler.”
One legislator said the British are arrogant and had gone too far (欺人太甚) (mind you, he referred to the British, not The Economist).
These responses are all very entertaining, but I question how many Taiwanese read the article before they commented on it.
In the past, The Economist has portrayed Ma using phrases such as “Ma the peacemaker” and “the Harvard-educated Ma.”
The “bumbler” article is certainly an interesting turn of events in the editor’s choice of words.
However, the report does not touch upon some hard facts, such as Ma’s failure to deliver on his “6-3-3” campaign pledge, the “Golden Decade” and multiple trade agreements after the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement was signed.
The report simply states: “He has failed to paint a more hopeful future.”
The article reads tepidly and is run-of-the-mill.
Additionally, I question whether the pan-green camp is justified to be overjoyed or feel vindicated.
I hardly think so. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) does not score any points with the “bumbler” piece — this is not a ruthless contest to decide who is most stupid.
As the largest opposition party, the DPP has not proven itself to be any better at improving policies or demonstrating its ability to govern.
Last, but not least, since the president has a grossly underwhelming 13 percent approval rating, the verdict is already cast.
Does Taiwan really need the validation of foreigners?
Bumbler or not, the real issue is what can be done to prevent this man from completely ruining Taiwan. Recalling him would appear to be a reasonable start.
Tiffany Hsiao
Rockville, Maryland
Ma sadly staying mum
I wonder if President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) is going to issue his own statement of disapproval over China’s [changes to include nearly all of the South China Sea as its territory on its new passports].
Something tells me that he is too deep in China’s back pocket to do so.
This is just another example of unanswered Chinese provocation that will be allowed to let pass, all in the name of staying in Beijing’s good graces.
This is a sad, sad statement.
Tom Kuleck
Greater Taichung
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