According to reliable sources, the former president believed it was inappropriate for the court to impose a ban on his daughter's overseas travel merely for her perjury committed out of filial piety to her mother. Chen stressed he was helpless now and hence decided to discard his personal dignity in writing this letter as the last resort "for the sake of his daughter as well as his grandchildren."

The presidential office indicated it would refer Chen's letter to the judiciary. In fact, any judgment should be made by court after considering everything such as the attitude of the accused.

It is not difficult to understand the feeling of anguish of Chen as a father. But, he should also understand the same agony of Taiwanese caught in the middle of a political and judicial storm caused by the corruption trial of him and his family now going on in court. So far, ample credible evidence collected from various sources, including foreign governments, has substantiated most charges against the Chens.

And yet, the former president has stubbornly refused to admit to any wrongdoing personally while other members of the Chen family are perceived to be doing their best to play games with the court, including plea bargaining and confessing only to lesser crimes.

Mr. President, have you ever thought of the uniqueness of your case in China's judicial history, so much so that it has posed unique problems for relevant authorities?

First of all, you were a popularly elected head of state and ruled Taiwan for eight years. Because of your past status, you have brought down so many high government officials with you, including the president of the Judicial Yuan.

Secondly, you are respected and loved by many Taiwanese as the "son of Taiwan," hence, ethnical emotions have been inevitably stirred in the handling of your case, particularly under the leadership of Ma Ying-jeou, considered a "mainlander."

This is why your case has become such a hot potato in Taiwan politics and why the legal process has proceeded so slowly and seemingly so inefficiently to the disappointment of many. In fact, as things stand now, Taiwan society appears to be on the verge of being torn apart and destroyed by embezzlement charges against you.

Therefore, all decent people here beg you as well as your family, just as you did in writing to Ma about the wellbeing of your daughter, to plead guilty and tell the court all you know about your misconduct for the benefit of all, including the nation, your children and grandchildren.