TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je emphasized on Friday (March 1) that the proposed "TPP cafes" will be volunteer-run, addressing concerns regarding potential violations of the Political Parties Act.
This statement follows Ko's announcement the previous day that the TPP plans to launch three cafes equipped with food vending machines, with potential collaboration with Ningxia Night Market.
In response, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) member Chung Chia-pin expressed concerns, stating, "If Ko opens a cafe and recruits young people to manage it, this may contradict the essential nature of the political party as a public entity."
Acknowledging these concerns, Ko emphasized that "the political party cannot operate a profitable business," highlighting that the cafes will be managed solely by TPP supporters. "We are simply borrowing venues to host events," Ko stated.
The TPP has gained popularity among young people, expanding its presence across Taiwan with a grassroots approach. While adopting a business mindset to run the party is an initiative worth exploring, all political parties must avoid crossing legal boundaries.