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Ma Ying-jeou starts campaign to attract grassroots support

Former Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) chairman and presidential hopeful Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) yesterday began his nationwide campaign tour in Taipei County, pledging to join efforts with all ethnic groups to "save the nation" if elected.

In response to supporters cheering "President Ma!" Ma shrugged off his recent indictment on corruption charges, saying he would demonstrate his determination in pursuing the presidency and seeking a solution to the nation's plight.

"When heaven is about to place a great responsibility on a great man, he may first encounter experiences that could frustrate his will and spirit," Ma said yesterday while visiting Jhonghe City (中和).

Stopping by Sanchong City (三重) later in the evening, Ma was welcomed by city Mayor Lee Chien-lung (李乾龍) and Taipei County Speaker Chen Hsing-chin (陳幸進), who gave him a wok and a turner. The two officials called on Ma to present the "beef" in the campaign and be responsive to public demand.

"We hope that Mr. Ma will not be a `nonstick pan.' He needs to get in touch with the grassroots more and stand by the people to win the election," they said.

In response to questions about the upcoming KMT chairman by-election in April, Ma denied asking Taichung Mayor Jason Hu (胡志強) or Taoyuan Mayor Chu Li-lun (朱立倫) to run for the post, saying he would not get involved in the election.

KMT acting chairman Wu Poh-hsiung (吳伯雄) declined to answer whether he would join the election, but repeated that he would not compete if former KMT chairman Lien Chan (連戰) decided to run.

Meanwhile, Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng (王金平) yesterday said he would not run for KMT chairman, dismissing speculation that he might agree to support Ma as the party's presidential candidate in exchange for the party chairmanship.

"I would prefer that former chairman Lien Chan (連戰) takes over the chairmanship again." Wang said.
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