HSINCHU (TVBS News) — A Taiwan People's Party member confirmed on Monday (March 10) that former Chairman Ko Wen-je's (柯文哲) family declined the Presidential Office's intention to send a representative to his father's funeral, urging the office to prioritize national matters.
Mourners gathered on Monday in Hsinchu City to honor Ko's father Ko Cheng-fa (柯承發), who passed away at the age of 94. The ceremony, held at the Hsinchu City Mortuary (新竹市立殯儀館) with pink lotus decorations, reflected a celebratory farewell for his long life.
Political figures across party lines, including former Presidents Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁), sent floral tributes. Although President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) flower basket was not displayed, sources confirmed that he and Presidential Office Secretary-General Pan Men-an (潘孟安) sent their tributes the previous night.
TPP spokesperson Chang Tong (張彤) expressed gratitude for the Presidential Office's concern, noting the numerous floral tributes received and managed by a ceremonial company. TPP Caucus Secretary-General Vicky Chen (陳智菡) and Legislator Chang Chi-kai (張啓楷) respected the family's decision to forgo official representation at the ceremony.