How could the government ask all opposition parties to "stand together with the people" in its own decision to shut down TV channels? A decision like this is an attack on media freedom. What is particularly alarming is that it happened when the proposed national communications commission is expected to be established in less than two months. The government just can't seem to pass up its last opportunity to revoke the licenses of media outlets.
The channels are accused of having "caused social instability," according to DPP caucus whip William Lai (賴清德), and the government threatened the channels which passed the evaluation by announcing that they could also lose their licenses in three months if they fail to carry out so-called "self-discipline." This is blatant intimidation aimed at forcing the media to produce positive coverage of the government.
Those who want to display their power may win now, but if they are serious about democracy, they should put their energy into pushing for the commission and stop abusing their power. Taiwan is trying hard to keep alive optimism about reform; let's prevent liberal concerns from drowning in censorship.
Wang Weiming
Chiayi
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