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NSB says security for national day festivities in hand

National Security Bureau Director Shi Hwei-yow (許惠祐) said yesterday that the bureau will take action against anyone attempting to disturb the Double Ten National Day celebrations.

Shi's remarks came amid reports that anti-President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) protesters are preparing to disrupt the celebrations again this year.

Shi said freedom of speech would be respected as long as people do not interfere with the celebrations or jeopardize the security of others.

Asked about contingency measures if someone unfurls banners in front of the president, Shi said that would be construed as jeopardizing the security of the nation's leader and disrupting the progress of the celebrations, and, therefore, would not be allowed.

Taiwan Solidarity Union Legislator Ho Ming-hao (何敏豪) asked if the bureau had any information concerning possible anti-Chen "red shirt" protests.

Shi said there were reports that protesters would take "sporadic" action, but the National Security Council would continue to monitor the situation.

In response to a question from Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Kao Chien-chih (高建智) about security measurers, Shi said sharpshooters would be deployed on tall buildings near the Presidential Office.

The council has done everything possible to ensure security, Shi said, although he declined to go into detail, saying only that he is confident of maintaining law and order on the day.

The "red shirt" protesters in the "Million Voices Against Corruption" campaign staged several large sit-ins and rallies in September last year that climaxed in a demonstration on Oct. 10. during which tens of thousands surrounded the Presidential Office and the presidential residence to demand Chen's resignation.

Opposition legislators flashed the "thumbs-down" gesture of the campaign and unfurled banners to demand Chen's ouster while he was addressing the rally.
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