China warns of death penalty for 'diehard' Taiwan separatists
- In Reports
- 06:20 PM, Jun 22, 2024
- Myind Staff
China issued a threat to impose the death penalty on "diehard" Taiwan independence separatists, escalating tensions despite the fact that Chinese courts have no authority over the democratically governed island.
China, asserting Taiwan as its own territory, has openly expressed disapproval of President Lai Ching-te, who assumed office last month, labelling him a "separatist". Shortly after Lai's inauguration, China conducted military exercises, highlighting its stance against Taiwanese independence.
Taiwan has raised concerns about increased Chinese pressure since Lai's victory in January's election. This includes ongoing military manoeuvres, trade sanctions, and coast guard patrols near Taiwan-administered islands close to China.
According to China's state-run Xinhua news agency, new directives instruct Chinese courts, prosecutors, and security bodies to "severely punish Taiwan independence advocates for attempting to divide the nation and inciting secession crimes in accordance with the law". The guidelines aim to firmly protect national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Xinhua reported that the guidelines are aligned with existing laws, including the 2005 anti-succession law, which provides legal grounds for China to use military force against Taiwan in case of secession or imminent secession.
Sun Ping, an official from China's Ministry of Public Security, stated in Beijing that the maximum penalty for the "crime of secession" is the death penalty. She emphasised that stringent legal measures will always be rigorously enforced.
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council strongly criticised Beijing's actions, advising its citizens not to be intimidated by China.
In a statement, the council asserted that Beijing has no jurisdiction over Taiwan and that laws and regulations imposed by the Chinese Communist Party hold no authority over the Taiwanese people. The government urged the public to remain calm and not succumb to threats or intimidation from China.
The guidelines specify punishable offences such as advocating Taiwan's membership in international organisations requiring statehood, engaging in "official exchanges" with foreign entities, and suppressing parties, groups, or individuals supporting "reunification".
Furthermore, the guidelines introduce a broad clause that encompasses "other acts aiming to separate Taiwan from China", allowing for a flexible interpretation of the rules.
Despite President Lai's repeated offers for dialogue, China has consistently rejected them, asserting that Taiwan's future should be determined solely by its people.
China has previously taken legal actions against Taiwanese officials, including imposing sanctions on Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan's former de facto ambassador to the United States and current Vice President.
However, these measures hold little practical effect as Taiwanese courts do not recognise Chinese jurisdiction, and Taiwan's government rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims. Additionally, senior Taiwanese officials, including the president, do not conduct visits to China.
Image source: Reuters
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