TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) reiterated his controversial comparison of President Lai Ching-te to Adolf Hitler on Wednesday, emphasizing that the two leaders were democratically elected. Ko stressed the need for checks and balances and lawful governance, cautioning Lai about the dangers of excessive power without self-restraint.
In a pointed Facebook post, Ko argued that disasters led by despotic leaders could doom nations, using Hitler as a prime example. He criticized Lai for reacting defensively to his comments, choosing to respond through a spokesperson rather than directly. Ko also noted that Lai's unwillingness to report to the Legislative Yuan until a constitutional interpretation is completed could signal a drift toward autocratic rule.
Ko further highlighted past instances where he believes Lai prioritized personal preferences over legal obligations, such as his extended absence from the Tainan council during his tenure as mayor, only returning after public outcry over a severe dengue outbreak. He concluded with a stark warning: respect for the law is integral to maintaining the legitimacy of presidential power; failure to uphold legal standards could erode the very foundation of Taiwan’s rule of law.