Taiwan's president defends handling of typhoon

Source: Associated Press

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou defended his handling of Typhoon Morakot, saying Tuesday that he was still a strong leader despite the resignation of a senior official in the wake of criticism of the government response to the disaster.

The storm hit Taiwan 11 days ago, causing more than 400 deaths and property damage in excess of $2 billion. Friends and foes alike have blamed Ma for reacting too slowly in dealing with Morakot's aftermath, saying that his weak leadership — including an initial rejection of foreign aid — let down the people of the island.

But in comments Tuesday, Ma rejected those claims out of hand.

"I have exercised strong leadership throughout this process by ordering the armed forces to increase their participation in the disaster rescue operation," he said.

Ma said that he would likely accept the resignation of Vice Foreign Minister Andrew Hsia, who offered to step down late Monday to take responsibility for his agency's rejection of aid from other governments after Morakot hit.

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McCain seems to have a knack for saving Presidents from storm-related opprobrium. Fortunately, McCain's next birthday is only 10 days off.