Taiwan’s government is still debating how to handle authoritarian symbols like the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial. Culture Minister Shih Che (史哲) said on Tuesday that removing the statue would be a massive project and there hasn’t been any significant progress in making a decision.
Tuesday also marks Peace Memorial Day in Taiwan, which commemorates the 228 Incident, when the military killed civilians in anti-government uprisings. Chiang Kai-shek (蔣中正) was Taiwan’s president during the oppressive period of martial law that followed the massacre.
Chiang remains a very controversial figure in Taiwanese history, and many people are demanding that his memorial is replaced with something that doesn’t glorify authoritarianism.
Shih says it’s abnormal to honor authoritarian leaders in a free, democratic society. But he says the memorial hall is already an important area for social activities, tourism, and entertainment, so any reconstruction requires careful consideration. He adds that the memorial park is not just a place to commemorate Chiang, but also includes the National Theater and Concert Hall.