The Kuomintang and the Democratization of Taiwan by Steven J. Hood

Author:Steven J. Hood [Hood, Steven J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: History, Political Science, General, Asia
ISBN: 9780813390079
Google: kPWNAAAAMAAJ
Goodreads: 1897856
Publisher: Westview Press
Published: 1996-10-17T00:00:00+00:00

4. Agenda Setting

The KMT had developed a proven record of economic success to base its support, but realized that political progress was a key aspect that had been neglected. Promises of greater political liberalization were kept by the party, thus improving its chances to effect political change over time and win the support of Taiwan’s population. The linkage of an improved living standard and ongoing liberal reforms helped develop a sense of democratic promise in Taiwan. This in turn influenced the formation of policies Chiang introduced in his later years.52 While Chiang Ching-kuo played a large role in setting this agenda, there is no doubt other leaders were instrumental in formulating the details and enforcing the changes amidst opposition from party conservatives who felt the Kuomintang’s goals were being abandoned too quickly. In some respects the KMT had lost control of the agenda with the emergence of political openness. Disagreements grew within the party as the KMT was forced to give-in to the realities of a new political climate. But the measured pace of reform kept the transition process from getting out of hand and upsetting political calm. It also stabilized leadership replacement within the KMT. In turn, replacement set the party on a more direct path of reform, giving Chiang’s successor the support he needed to keep up the gradual pace of liberalization.

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