Taiwan’s former presidential candidate Ko Wen-je has been charged with corruption, sparking a wave of protests from his allies and supporters. The 65-year-old is accused of accepting bribes worth $500,000 in connection with real estate dealings during his time as Taipei mayor, as well as misreporting campaign finances during his presidential run.
Prosecutors are seeking up to 28.5 years in prison for Ko, who denies the corruption allegations. Several members of his party have also been charged with misappropriating political donations. The indictment is a blow to Ko’s Taiwan People Party, which was seen as a dark horse contender in last year’s presidential election.
Ko’s popularity was rooted in his willingness to challenge the status quo, criticizing the ruling Democratic People’s Party for its relations with Beijing and accusing the main opposition Kuomintang of being too deferential. His arrest has sparked concerns that the DPP is trying to suppress its opponents. Ko had previously won two terms as Taipei mayor but shifted his politics in recent years, expanding ties with mainland China.
The indictment marks a significant setback for Ko’s party, which was seen as an alternative to the ruling parties. The outcome raises questions about the future of Taiwan’s politics and whether Ko’s party can recover from this wave of prosecutions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czd48v87md1o