President Chen Shui-bian is accusing China of trying to influence an upcoming election that could pave the way for public referendums. Chen said in an interview on Sunday night that Beijing sees the election as a step toward formal independence. Chen also said China has sought to win the help of opposition leaders to block the proposed constitutional reform. Taiwan will hold an election on Saturday to select party-affiliated delegates to a National Assembly. Within a month, the elected delegates will vote on proposed reforms, including holding public referendums to approve future constitutional amendments.

Source: Radio Taiwan International