Chen Chien-nien (
"Through teamwork, we aim to take greater steps in our work for Aborigines," said Chen, of the Puyuma (
Chen was speaking yesterday at a ceremony to mark the change of chairman, which was held in the lobby of the Council of Aboriginal Affairs.
PHOTO: CHU PEI-HSIUNG, TAIPEI TIMES
Despite the rain, more than 300 guests, mostly Chen's friends and relatives from Taitung County who dressed in colorful Aboriginal costumes, came to watch the ceremony.
Chen praised the work of his predecessor, Yohani Isqaqavut, who was also present at the ceremony.
"Under Yohani's leadership during the past year and eight months, the council has established a firm foundation," Chen said. "This excellent beginning will allow me to carry on the mission to care for the welfare of Aborigines."
After stepping down as the council's chairman, Yohani, a member of the Bunun (布農) tribe, plans to resume his position as the chief of general administration at the Yushan Theological Seminary.
During his speech, Chen talked of the emotional struggles he underwent before he accepted the post, offered by Premier Yu Shyi-kun.
"When Yu first made me the offer on Jan. 9," Chen said, "I declined the offer on the spot, telling him that I already had other career plans."
Chen was referring to the legislator-at-large seat he had won in December's election with the KMT.
Chen said it was President Chen Shui-bian (
"During our meeting on the 18th of this months, President Chen told me that he cared enormously about the welfare of Aborigines, and that encouraged me to head this council to help take greater steps in serving the needs of the nation's Aborigines," he said.
After he accepted the position, Chen had to relinquish his legislative seat, as the Constitution requires.
Chen said that he had spoken with KMT Chairman Lien Chan (
Nonetheless, Chen faces expulsion by the party's Discipline and Evaluation Committee since the KMT has prohibited party members from joining the Cabinet without its consent.
"It was thus an emotional struggle for me since I have been a KMT member for the past 36 years," Chen said.
"However," he continued, "I have come to the decision to place Aboriginal affairs before my political affiliation and to put my political party aside for the good of the nation."
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