Lee Teng-hui Ends Period of Mobilization for Suppression of Communist Rebellion

In a historic move that would reshape Taiwan’s political landscape, President Lee Teng-hui announced the termination of the “Period of Mobilization for the Suppression of the Communist Rebellion” on May 1, 1991. This decision marked the end of four decades of emergency rule and opened the door for comprehensive democratic reforms.

Breaking from Authoritarian Past

The Period of Mobilization, initiated in 1948 during the Chinese Civil War, had served as the legal foundation for the Kuomintang’s (KMT) authoritarian rule over Taiwan. Under this framework:

• Constitutional rights were suspended
• Opposition parties were banned
• Media was strictly controlled
• Military courts had jurisdiction over civilians

Lee’s decision to end this period represented a fundamental break from the authoritarian governance model that had characterized Taiwan since 1949.

Constitutional Implications

The termination of emergency rule necessitated significant constitutional amendments:

1. Abolition of the Temporary Provisions - The constitutional amendments that had suspended normal democratic procedures were repealed
2. Legislative Reform - Plans were initiated to retire “eternal” legislators elected on the mainland in 1947
3. Direct Elections - Groundwork was laid for direct presidential elections

Beijing’s Response

The People’s Republic of China viewed these developments with concern:

• Feared democratization would strengthen Taiwan’s separate identity
• Worried about the precedent for political reform in mainland China
• Increased rhetoric about “splittist” activities

Domestic Political Dynamics

The decision faced resistance from conservative elements within the KMT:

• Old guard members feared loss of power
• Military establishment worried about reduced influence
• Mainlander community concerned about political marginalization

However, Lee skillfully navigated these challenges, building coalitions with reform-minded KMT members and opposition forces.

International Reception

The international community, particularly the United States, welcomed the reforms:

• Strengthened Taiwan’s democratic credentials
• Enhanced legitimacy in international forums
• Provided moral high ground vis-à-vis authoritarian Beijing

Path to Democracy

This decision set in motion a series of democratic reforms:

• Full parliamentary elections in December 1991
• Constitutional amendments in 1992
• Direct presidential election scheduled for 1996

The end of the Period of Mobilization represented more than a legal change—it symbolized Taiwan’s transformation from an authoritarian state to an emerging democracy, fundamentally altering the dynamics of cross-strait relations and setting up a clear contrast between democratic Taiwan and authoritarian China.