President Chen Shui-bian (
Chen called for an independent investigation into the Kaohsiung MRT scandal, saying that he was willing to take responsibility and step down immediately if he was found to be in any way culpable for the affair.
The president made the remarks as he convened a gathering of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) politicians last night in an attempt to salvage the party's image after a spate of corruption allegations.
Aside from restating his determination to carry out reform plans during his remaining time in office, Chen listened to suggestions from his fellow party members.
Noticeable by her absence was Chen Che-nan (
Chen Che-nan was attending her daughter's wedding instead.
Some have speculated, however, that the president timed last night's gathering to coincide with the wedding in order to avoid having to attend that event.
Many DPP politicians who are unhappy with the allegations of corruption within the government have launched a "new DPP movement" calling for internal reform within the party.
Luo Wen-jia (
Luo is among a group of DPP lawmakers who have asked fellow party members serving in the government to self-critique their performances and actions.
In response to the appeals of "new DPP movement," President Chen yesterday said that the DPP held the reins of the government not in order to gain wealth but to carry out reform.
"The greatest meaning of the transfer of power between parties should lie in the government's determination to implement its reform policy," the president told his guests.
"It is A-Bian who needs to take the most responsibility to implement the reform," he said. "As a DPP member, as a leader of the country, I will make a thorough self-criticism."
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