Should A-bian be Released?

The question "Should A-bian be released?" is a trap in itself. At its most basic literal meaning, releasing A-bian means letting him leave prison. With a great deal of "tacit understanding," "medical parole" is constantly being discussed. "Parole" is only temporary, meaning he could potentially be sent back at any time. However, the recent atmosphere has been that "A-bian is coming out soon," as if it is certain he will never return once he leaves. Such ambiguous phrasing leaves plenty of room for imagination and open to individual interpretation.

Whether it is the Democratic Progressive Party forcing a resignation or the Kuomintang showing goodwill, Premier Mao Chi-kuo (毛治國) invoking humanitarianism, Minister of Justice Lo Ying-sheh (羅瑩雪) pointing the way, or Annette Lu (呂秀蓮) declaring a hunger strike, the whole country is staging a coordinated theatrical drama of "crying out for A-bian's release." Some act with sincerity, others seemingly with pretense. How this spectacular ending will unfold is something we can, of course, continue to watch. Yet, as everyone enjoys the good show, Taiwan's rule of law and legal system once again become the sacrificial lambs. Comparing two successive presidents who both studied law, neither showed the slightest loyalty or faith in the rule of law, which is truly lamentable.

Pardon or Medical Parole

Releasing A-bian is not out of the question. However, whenever people talk about A-bian, emotions run high and minds become clouded, making the discussions muddled. In fact, two levels of issues must be distinguished first. First, should A-bian be "pardoned or have his sentence commuted"? Second, should A-bian be granted "medical parole"? This further involves the general standards for "medical parole."