Presidential elections in democratic countries are important tests of the candidates' characters. Unfortunately, presidential elections in this country have yet to rise about the level of mudslinging contests, with political parties and politicians appearing more interested in character assassination than policy proposals.
Such tactics are not without risks. Go too far and the accuser may lose his or her own credibility as well as votes. As renowned academic Liao Shu-tsung (???) said, the priority of presidential elections in democratic countries does not simply lie in each candidate's ability to run the country, but in his or her own character. Honesty and credibility are the most important characteristics. However, it seems that the pan-blue camp is at a loss about what to do in this year's election.
First, it surprisingly used remarks by Academia Sinica President Lee Yuan-tseh (???) in a TV ad without his permission. Lee issued a public protest and demanded the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT)-People First Party (PFP) alliance immediately pull the ad. In another ad the alliance distorted a speech by Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Chang Chun-hung (???) at the Legislative Yuan, turning his criticism of KMT Chairman Lien Chan (??) into an attack on President Chen Shui-bian (???). Chang was quick to condemn the spot.
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/edit/archives/2004/03/03/2003100973
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