Despite backlash following Monday’s announcement that the Interior Ministry would promote the renaming of all “Zhongzheng” and “Jingguo” roads in Taiwan, the ministry says it will continue to promote the ideas in-line with transitional justice. The ministry will also assist in communication, and insists that it does not want to cause a confrontation.
Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) clarified again on Wednesday’s legislative interview that the Interior Ministry is removing authoritarian symbols in accordance with the National Action Program for Transitional Justice Education. That said, it will maintain clear communication, while factoring in transitional and provisional justice. Liu says that she understands many are still sorting through their feelings on the past, and historical representations of it– which is exactly why they wish to keep clear and open communication on the issue. However, she states that their position hasn’t changed, and they will continue to promote the removal of the vestiges of authoritarianism.
Answering how much money the renaming project would cost, Liu says it’s impossible to estimate, and that she looks to the previous renaming project for Taichung’s Taiwan Boulevard as an example. For that project, the estimated cost was several million NT dollars because the budget for road renaming projects is regulated by the autonomous regulations of each county and city. Liu also pointed out that if county and city renaming projects need funds, the Interior Ministry will provide financial assistance through the Transition Justice Fund.