15 May 1990

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN TAIWAN CONCERNING THE PRESENT SITUATION

We believe that a homeland and human rights are given by God.

Therefore, love for our homeland and active concern for Taiwan's future lie deeply in the heart of our church. Viewing the current situation of administrative crisis caused by the political divisions in Taiwan, we believe that Taiwan will face increasing difficulties in the future. The Presbyterian Church, out of concern for the situation facing Taiwan, solemnly issues these recommendations.

1. The government of Taiwan cannot represent mainland China. The ruling party must recognize the fact that it does not exercise political authority over the mainland; and must very soon announce the end of "The Period of Communist Rebellion", rescind the "Temporary Provisions Effective During the Period of Communist Rebellion" and cease using the "Constitution of the Republic of China".

In order that democratic constitutional rule may truly take root in Taiwan, we insist that this be accomplished within one year; that the people of Taiwan (including Aborigines, Hok-lo [Taiwanese speaking people], Hakka, and Mainlanders) govern themselves; that Taiwan and its related islands be the limits of the area governed; that there be a new Constitution to resolve the ambiguities that now exist between central and regional governments; that the structure of the National Assembly be changed, that the Judiciary be independent; and that other problems be resolved. We also call for the election of a new national legislature in accordance with a new Constitution and the organization of a new government.

2. China does not include Taiwan. The present and future of Taiwan do not belong to China. The governance and land of Taiwan belong only to the people of Taiwan. Cultural, athletic, economic and other kinds of interchange between Taiwan and China must be based on this kind of foundation. We earnestly hope that with independent self-rule, the relationship between Taiwan and China can be to the mutual advantage of both; that in foreign affairs there be mutual recognition, and that with trust there will be benefits for each so that both may exist and prosper side by side.

3. In order to promote social justice and harmony, we earnestly appeal to President LEE Teng-Hui to release all political prisoners without delay and to restore to them their civil and professional rights.

4. President Lee's recent administrative acts are at variance with the will of the people: especially the nomination of a military figure, General HAU Pei-Tsun, to be Premier. General Hau's nomination is a step backwards in constitutional rule, and is contradictory to the world-wide movement towards greater democracy. It has already created fear and the loss of morale among the people. We urgently appeal to President Lee to identify himself with the people and land of Taiwan, to govern for the citizens of Taiwan and name a different and suitable political figure to organize the makeup of the Cabinet, in order to remove the doubts and fears of the people, to help increase democratization and to improve Taiwan's international status.

SIGNED BY:

H. L. Chih C. S. Yang
Moderator of the General Assembly General secretary