TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei 101 was lit up on Monday night (Jan. 15) to honor Shih Ming-te, the former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) chairman, who passed away on the same day.
From 6:30 p.m. until 10 p.m., the light display on the iconic skyscraper carried messages that included "Mourning Mr. Shih Ming-te," "A wise man's day has gone," "Thank you," and "A lifetime dedicated to Taiwan."
President Tsai Ing-wen also recognized Shih's dedication to democracy. In a statement, she lauded Shih's engagement in the democratic movement during Taiwan's authoritarian period. He was a forerunner in protecting democracy and human rights in Taiwan.
Moreover, Shih helped set up the Formosa Magazine, promoting concepts of democracy, freedom, and human rights, President Tsai commented.
She further noted Taiwan's transformation from the past party and media prohibition era to its modern-day open democracy.
She said Taiwan, following its eighth democratic presidential election, is a free country and a crucial partner in the international democratic alliance.
President Tsai thanked Shih for his contributions to Taiwan, pledging to "unite all forces to continue building a better Taiwan."