Long-term independence advocate Su Beng (史明) was hospitalized in Tokyo yesterday with uremia and kidney problems.
Sources close to Su said that his condition is serious and doctors are mulling whether to begin dialysis — a treatment for kidney complications — because of his age.
Born in 1918, Su turned 91 in September.
Originally named Shih Chao-hui (施朝暉), Su played an early role in Taiwan's independence movement and later wrote the book, "Taiwan's 400-Year History" during the 40 years he was exiled in Japan.
After martial law was lifted, Su returned to Taiwan in 1993 and worked as an independence activist while appearing frequently at events held by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court upheld a ruling that found him guilty of using violence or threatening behavior at a public gathering and other crimes during a 2005 protest against then-Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) chairman Lien Chan's (連戰) visit to China.
Although he was sentenced to 230 days in prison, the court allowed him the option of paying a fine in lieu of serving time in jail as Su's actions did not cause injury or death.
The sources added that they were waiting for test results to see if his condition was stable enough to return to Taiwan for treatment. However, doctors have said that because of his age and deteriorating condition, the hospital is unlikely to discharge him for the time being.
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