Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2018-02-28

Former presidents Lee Teng-hui and Chen Shui-bian have voiced support for a new plan

Former President Lee Teng-hui appears Wednesday at a press conference on a proposed independence referendum. (Photo by CNA)

to hold an independence referendum in 2019. Both former leaders spoke at a press conference held by backers of the plan on Wednesday.

In his address, Lee Teng-hui called referendums the “most powerful weapon of the people”. He said that through an independence referendum, Taiwan’s people can change the country’s official name to Taiwan under a new constitution. He also said that if this happens, the nation can apply to join international organizations under the name “Taiwan”.

Chen Shui-bian delivered his remarks through a pre-recorded video. After leaving office, Chen was sentenced to 20 years in prison for corruption. He is currently on medical parole. Chen called Taiwan a sovereign and independent country. He said that an independent Taiwan is not only his dream, but the dream of Taiwan’s people. He said it is a dream that must be realized and a dream he believes will be realized.   [SOURCE]