/ 3 December 2004

Politician presents the naked truth

An independent candidate running for next week’s parliamentary polls in Taiwan stripped to his underwear on Friday as a gimmick to attract attention on television.

Chen Sheng-chun succeeded in getting the much-needed media attention by taking off his suit and giving his political views in front of TV cameras.

”There is no rule that requires a candidate to get fully dressed in making his or her political platform to be broadcast by on TV,” said the candidate from the first electoral district of Taipei County.

Obviously stunned election officials let him finish his TV speech, which was scheduled to be broadcast Sunday on local TV.

Under Taiwan election law, hopefuls in the December 11 polls are given free air time to present their political platforms to TV viewers.

Without a party or other political resources, a number of independent candidates have been going to extreme lengths to gain visibility. – Sapa-DPA