President Lai Ching-te commemorated the 36th anniversary of Cheng Nan-jung’s passing on Monday. The memorial took place at Chin Pao San Cemetery in New Taipei City’s Jinshan District. Lai attended the event alongside Cheng’s widow, Yeh Chu-lan, and daughter, Cheng Chu-mei.
In his speech, President Lai expressed gratitude to Cheng and other democracy fighters. He shared that this was his first time attending the memorial as president. Lai emphasized that Cheng’s fight for democracy remains an inspiration. He also pledged to work towards uniting Taiwanese society.
Cheng Nan-jung, born in 1947, initially pursued engineering at National Cheng Kung University. However, he shifted his focus to philosophy and politics, enrolling in National Taiwan University’s Department of Philosophy.
In 1984, Cheng founded the Freedom Era Weekly. His goal was to promote “100% freedom of speech.” The magazine highlighted sensitive issues, such as election fraud and political scandals.
In 1988, Cheng published a draft constitution advocating for Taiwan’s independence. This action led to the Kuomintang (KMT) issuing an arrest warrant for him on charges of sedition.
On April 7, 1989, Cheng chose self-immolation as his final act of defiance. This act occurred just as KMT officers stormed his publishing office. Cheng’s dedication to opposing dictatorship and supporting transitional justice is praised by President Lai.
Lai highlighted that Taiwan now stands as a democratic model in Asia. He emphasized that national sovereignty is essential for freedom and democracy. “Only with sovereignty can there be democracy, only with democracy can there be freedom, and only with freedom can there be human rights,” Lai stated.
President Lai also remarked on the importance of Freedom of Speech Day. He hopes that all Taiwanese citizens will honor Cheng’s legacy by continuing to uphold these values.
