TSU to hold fifth birthday celebration in Kaohsiung

The Taiwan Solidarity Union (TSU) will hold its fifth anniversary celebration tonight in Kaohsiung City, during which a simulated constitutional referendum will be held to highlight the party's goal of pushing for a new constitution, the party's chairman said at a news conference yesterday.

Former president Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) will make a keynote speech at the event, elaborating on his vision for Taiwan's future, said TSU Chairman Shu Chin-chiang (蘇進強). A fund-raising banquet will be held at the same venue.

During tonight's event, the party will simulate a referendum on a new constitution for Taiwan and put it to vote so that the public can decide whether a presidential system or semi-parliamentary system best suits the country.

Shu said that the public is used to casting votes for candidates, but is not as familiar with casting ballots in referendums on public policy.

The TSU's candidate for Taipei mayor Clara Chou (周玉蔻), Kao-hsiung mayoral candidate Lo Chih-ming (羅志明) and city councilors will join in the celebration to boost their campaign momentum, Shu said.

Shu denied speculation that Lee would denounce President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) in his speech in view of the recent spate of corruption scandals involving Chen's senior aides and in-laws. Shu said the TSU would not bother criticizing the president on its day of celebration because so many people have criticized Chen already.

"The TSU will not join in the movement of ousting Chen, but we will keep an eye on developments," Shu said.