Asia One
Date: Aug 5, 2015
One has been beheaded, others defaced. Some are dressed in costumes by pranksters.
MOCKED: Statues of Taiwan’s former ruler Chiang Kai-shek have been defaced as the island confronts its authoritarian past. Photo: AFP
Statues of Taiwan’s former ruler Chiang Kai-shek have been increasingly targeted as the island confronts its authoritarian past.
Though still seen as a hero by some for waging war against communist China under the nationalist Kuomintang (KMT), Chiang has long been a divisive figure. His role in Taiwan’s “White Terror” — a purge of political opponents — and his imposition of martial law led many to brand him a dictator.
TERRITORY
Despite splitting after a civil war, China considers the island as a part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary.
Fears over increased Chinese influence have grown since 2008 under President Ma Ying-jeou’s KMT government. [FULL STORY]
