FEER praises Chen, slams (Bush) criticism of referendum plans

[dArKeR]

The Far Eastern Economic Review has praised President Chen Shui-bian (???) for being a democrat and understanding the dynamics of representative government.

In its latest issue, the magazine said in an editorial that when the US chastises Chen for his plan to hold a referendum on the same day as the March 20 presidential election, it may also be giving the unfortunate impression that it sees Taiwan as a special case among democratic societies -- one that curiously has no right to hold referendums.

"Taiwan needed to be cautioned on the need for prudence, but this should not have sent a message to Communist China that threats towards a democratic society are acceptable," the editorial said.

It said that however one views Chen's referendum, there is no doubt that he understands the dynamics of representative government.

"He is a democrat, and it is impossible to disagree with him in a democratic context," it added.

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2004/02/27/2003100287