Standing United to Defend Chairman Ko Wen-je's Integrity

Following the release of Taiwan People's Party Chairman Ko Wen-je without bail, the High Court ruled yesterday (September 4) to remand the case for further proceedings. Today (September 5), the party's Central Emergency Response Team held a press conference featuring co-conveners Huang Kuo-chang and Lee Wei-hua, legislators Lin Kuo-chen and Chang Chi-kai, Taichung City Councilor Chiang He-shu, Taipei City Councilor Huang Ching-yin, and Secretary General Chou Yu-shiu. They articulated three key positions: First, the entire party stands united in defending Chairman Ko Wen-je's integrity. Second, all party officials and legislators will remain steadfast in their roles to provide oversight and supervision. Third, we express strong condemnation of the DPP's Lai Ching-te administration for using judicial measures to politically attack and persecute Chairman Ko and undermining Taiwan’s democracy and rule of law.

Ko’s Protracted Struggle Against Judicial Persecution by the Lai Administration

Following the investigation and interrogation of Taiwan People's Party Chairman Ko Wen-je, prosecutors have collaborated with select media outlets, politicians, and commentators to spread misinformation aimed at discrediting him. The media has extensively covered aspects that the Taipei District Prosecutor's Office did not disclose, severely distorting public opinion and casting doubt on the independence and impartiality of Taiwan's judiciary. Huang Kuo-chang remarked that this marks the beginning of a prolonged struggle that does not cease with the conclusion of the remand appeal, for the political and judicial attacks from the Lai administration are expected to continue. Chairman Ko, however, will maintain his usual calm and composure in response to this persistent legal assault.

Diligence in Work and Vigilance in Oversight

Huang Kuo-chang emphasized that Chairman Ko expects all party officials to fully commit to their roles and maximize their efforts to meet the expectations of our supporters. By diligently working and reaffirming our responsibilities, the party will be better prepared to face upcoming challenges. Huang also expressed gratitude to the supporters, urging them to adhere to Ko Wen-je's principles of "rationality and pragmatism" and to carry on with their daily lives in their respective positions.

Perversion of Prosecuting Powers and Undermining the Rule of Law

In light of recent investigative actions, Huang Kuo-chang has denounced what he calls blatant abuses of power that threaten Taiwan's rule of law. He criticized the prosecution and investigative agencies of distorting facts and manipulating public opinion through leaked and misleading information. Taiwan People's Party strongly protests this conduct, for it not only harms the party but also undermines the democratic values that Taiwan has long upheld. We cannot tolerate any resurgence of authoritarianism or the remnants of a party-state system on Taiwanese soil.

Huang Kuo-chang has cast doubt on the origins of the false information propagated by certain media. He points out that reports with striking headlines but no substantive content raise suspicions on their sources and credibility. Huang emphasizes that, despite enduring prolonged scrutiny and harassment from investigative agencies, Chairman Ko Wen-je remains resolute and resolved. He urges all party officials to remain diligent in their duties and calls on the legislative caucus to meet supporters’ expectations by maintaining rigorous oversight of the government and ensuring accountability.

Regarding the High Court's ruling, which granted the prosecutors' appeal and cited Chairman Ko's "active involvement" in the Core Pacific City case as a reason, Huang argues that the rationale provided is vague and lacks specific factual support.

When asked if Chairman Ko would refuse to post bail, Huang responded that Ko is fully aware that the political and judicial attacks from the Lai administration are unlikely to cease soon, regardless of the court's decision. Huang emphasized that the prosecution is manufacturing charges to imprison Ko, and as such, all forthcoming legal actions will be addressed in due course and through appropriate channels.

Media inquiries have surfaced regarding the possibility of Chairman Ko facing expulsion from the party if he is detained, and who might assume his role should that occur. Central Review Committee Chairman Lee Wei-hua responded that such concerns are premature, for the party remains united in supporting Chairman Ko's innocence. Meanwhile, Huang Kuo-chang noted that Ko is currently merely on leave, rendering the appointment of an interim chairman unnecessary at this juncture.

In response to KMT Taipei City Councilor Chung Hsiao-ping’s allegations that Chairman Ko used election subsidies to purchase commercial properties connected to the Core Pacific City case, Huang Kuo-chang has issued a strong protest. Huang questioned the legitimacy of Chung’s claims, demanding, "Where is the evidence for these unfounded accusations?" Chung, in turn, vaguely attributed his claims to "media reports," leading Huang to demand clarification: "Which media outlet is reporting this?"