President moves to squelch flag uproar

Countering the opposition's criticism, the TSU and academics expressed their support for Chen Shih-meng, saying that his remarks reflected a "democratic spirit" and that he had no intention of challenging the nation's sovereignty.

TSU legislative caucus leader Lin Chih-lung (林志隆) said, "Whether to change our national flag or the official name are public issues and may be discussed in any democratic country.

"If all citizens and the Congress reach a consensus, the national flag and official name can be changed at any time."

"That's why we have proposed a referendum law at the Legislative Yuan."

The Kaohsiung-based "Taiwan South Society" -- a group of pro-independence academics -- said that those who reftrain from amending the Constitution or changing national flag are ideological politicians and are violating democratic principles.