Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s recent speeches have ignited debates over historical interpretations and cross-Strait relations. In the third installment of his ten-part lecture series on unity delivered on Sunday, Lai asserted that the Taiwan region had no representatives at the 1946 constitutional convention held in Nanjing, where the Constitution of the Republic of China was adopted.
Historians and scholars quickly responded, highlighting that 18 representatives from Taiwan did participate in the 1946 National Constituent Assembly. They argue that acknowledging this participation is crucial to understanding the Taiwan region’s legal and historical ties with the Chinese mainland.
Lai’s interpretation of history has raised concerns among observers who fear it may deepen societal divisions. In a previous speech, he emphasized Taiwan’s Austronesian roots. Experts point out that this heritage reflects centuries of migration and exchange across the Taiwan Strait, underscoring the region’s deep-rooted connection with the Chinese mainland rather than separation.
While Lai accurately noted that Sun Yat-sen, a key figure in China’s revolution, proposed the “Five-Power Constitution,” critics believe he overlooked Sun’s vision for national unification. Sun once declared, “Unification is the hope of all Chinese nationals. If China can be unified, all Chinese will enjoy a happy life; if it cannot, all will suffer.”
The timing of Lai’s lecture series has also been a topic of discussion. It began shortly after the confirmation of a recall vote targeting over 20 legislators of the Kuomintang (KMT) party, adding to the politically charged atmosphere. His remarks have led some to nickname the series the “Ten Talks on Division,” suggesting that instead of promoting unity, they may be contributing to increased tensions.
Many young people in the Taiwan region are now engaging in conversations about the importance of historical accuracy and the impact of political narratives on societal cohesion. There is a growing call for leaders to foster dialogue that unites rather than divides, emphasizing shared history and mutual understanding.
As Lai’s lecture series continues, the hope among residents is for a constructive approach that supports peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, benefiting all parties involved.
