Despite a yearlong economic downturn and a lackluster performance so far, the DPP still trounced the KMT and People First People in the Dec. 1 election. The DPP will not only become the largest party in the legislature, but with the help of former President Lee Teng-hui's (李登輝) Taiwan Solidarity Union and the emerging "cross-party alliance for national stabilization," the so-called "pan-green" alliance might control over half the seats.
It is truly extraordinary that President Chen Shui-bian's (
Most commentators attribute the DPP's success in the Dec. 1 elections to the simple message that it delivered to voters -- "we cannot do well unless you give us legislative support." Nevertheless, other reasons also contributed to the astounding results.
Most voters see Chen as a caring, hardworking person who shows great courage. His slowness to act on his own promises is perceived as a result of opposition resistance on almost every matter.
So what now, Mr. President?
With his newly secured mandate, Chen is perhaps the most popular political figure in the country. He should therefore bring this public support to bear on domestic problems. However, strong leadership must be accompanied by the ability to compromise on key policy issues.
As a country struggling with a new democracy, Taiwan yearns for more discipline, structure and order in all phases of its national life. Upset with political corruption, crime and a sense of political chaos, voters are looking for strength and forceful leadership.
By utilizing his public image and applying it to anti-corruption, economic rejuvenation, crime fighting and government downsizing efforts, the president should find greater support from the rank and file. Moreover, Chen should focus on specific issues such as school discipline, protection of women's rights, welfare and health care.
If Chen and the DPP take the lead on these issues, it will help the party enlarge its support base and create a favorable environment for Chen's re-election.
The key to a successful administration is to develop specific proposals and use the publicity Chen generates to emphasize these issues. The DPP must be seen not as a party of individuals, but as a party of the entire nation.
However, just because the DPP may acquire a slim majority in the legislature does not mean smooth sailing for the administration. The government must embrace a strategy of negotiation to overcome the political stand-off with the opposition. Chen did well displaying a humble manner after the election. To win greater support, Chen and his Cabinet should find effective mechanisms to coordinate policy-making and implementation.
The formation of a "cross-party alliance for national stabilization" must not be seen as simply a competition for legislative seats. Rather, it should be viewed as the pursuit of a broader consensus on national security, sovereignty, normalization of relations with China, economic prosperity, social welfare as well as political reform. These issues are at the heart of Taiwan's democratic consolidation.
Strong leadership, determined action and the art of political bargaining will constitute the core of Taiwan's political development in the next two years. The alternation of parties was only the first stage of a peaceful transition of political power. It's time for Taiwan to enter the next phase of democratic institutionalization.
Liu Kuan-teh is a Taipei-based political commentator.
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