TAIPEI (TVBS News) — After the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) completed their presidential and vice-presidential candidate registrations, TPP presidential candidate Ko Wen-je addressed the failed KMT-TPP alliance on Facebook Saturday night (Nov. 25). He criticized the KMT for focusing solely on securing the presidency without considering an alternative option.
Ko anticipates that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will employ various strategies to fight back in the upcoming election. He revealed his willingness to compromise during negotiations but emphasized the need for the opposition parties to form the strongest possible alliance to win.
Addressing the dispute over opinion polls, Ko referred to a Nov. 17 experts' meeting that favored the Ko-Hou ticket over the Hou-Ko ticket. He accused the KMT of misrepresenting his intentions and failing to accurately reflect public opinion, noting that DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te would not concede even 0.001% in the actual presidential election.
Ko likened the current political situation to a train journey, stating, "The KMT and TPP coalition train has temporarily split, but the destination remains unchanged; the 2024 political turnover must be achieved." He expressed confidence that more like-minded partners would join the cause.
Ko extended specific thanks to Foxconn founder Terry Gou for withdrawing from the presidential race for the greater good and to pursue victory.
He also praised his running mate, Cynthia Wu, for her deep commitment to charitable work. Ko highlighted her work with AIDS orphans in South Africa in 2005 despite family opposition, her management of a charity foundation, and her dedication to public welfare and the rights of the disadvantaged, showcasing Wu's determination to forge a path for Taiwan.
Facing financial and resource challenges, Ko declared his steadfastness, proclaiming, "The power of the people will deepen the next wave of democratic reform."