TAIWAN: Ko Wen-je resigned as chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) on 1 January 2025, appointing Legislator Huang Kuo-chang as acting chairman during an emergency meeting of the TPP Central Standing Committee.
The decision follows Ko’s release from pretrial detention on bail of NT$70 million (US$2.14 million) amid corruption allegations.
Ko’s resignation was accepted with emotion by the committee members.
TPP Taichung chapter head Chiang Ho-shu revealed that Ko decided to step down to protect the party, emphasising that Ko would continue as a volunteer and lifelong member.
“The spirit of Ko will forever stay in the party,” Chiang said, underscoring the members’ tearful response to the decision.
Ko’s legal troubles stem from accusations of corruption during his tenure as Taipei mayor. Prosecutors allege his involvement in illicit activities related to the Core Pacific City Co redevelopment project. If convicted, Ko could face up to 28 years and six months in prison.
Chiang noted that the committee unanimously approved Huang’s nomination as acting chairman, with 14 members voting in favour. Huang abstained from the vote but was the first to express his support for the decision.
Ko declined a proposal to name him honorary chairman, stating that the party should focus on substantial matters rather than symbolic gestures.
The Taiwan High Court, however, vacated the ruling allowing Ko to post bail late yesterday evening, sending the matter back to the Taipei District Court. A third bail hearing is scheduled for today to determine whether Ko will be returned to pretrial detention.
BREAKING: Former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je arrives at the Taipei District Court for the third bail hearing in his corruption case. Ko is charged with accepting bribes during his time as mayor and misusing campaign funds during a presidential run last year. pic.twitter.com/55cgeywal8
— TaiwanPlus News (@taiwanplusnews) January 2, 2025
Chiang appealed to party supporters, stressing that Ko’s decision to resign was made out of love for the TPP and to ensure its survival. “If the party should fall, so would Ko,” he remarked.
Ko elaborated on his decision in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. “The TPP is now a crucial political force in Taiwan, and I cannot allow this lengthy judicial process to divert attention from or obstruct the development of the Taiwan People’s Party, nor hinder Taiwan’s cherished democracy,” he wrote. He expressed a deep sense of responsibility for the party and reiterated his commitment to remain a lifelong member and volunteer.
In his post, Ko urged supporters to stay positive despite adversity. “To all our supporters, I urge you to continue supporting the Taiwan People’s Party. Those who support me, Ko Wen-je, must also support the Taiwan People’s Party!” He added, “I hope everyone will join me in staying kind and doing their best. Believe in the power of positivity—it is the key to making Taiwan better.”
The TPP faces significant challenges, particularly in the upcoming local elections next year. Chiang acknowledged the risk of diminished support following Ko’s resignation but expressed confidence in the party’s resilience. He urged members to back the committee’s decision and believe in Ko’s innocence.
Despite stepping down from leadership, Ko expressed a commitment to the party’s success. Chiang shared his optimism, predicting that Ko would eventually return to a leadership role. “I am confident that Ko would come back by the front door,” he added.
As the party grapples with leadership changes and Ko’s legal battle, the coming months will be crucial in determining its trajectory, particularly in the face of electoral challenges.
