TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) officials responded Friday (Sept. 5) to the court-ordered release of former Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 台灣民眾黨) chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) on NT$70 million (around US$2.29 million) bail. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and party spokesperson Han Ying (韓瑩) addressed Ko's release following the court hearing that imposed eight-month travel restrictions. The substantial bail amount and conditions highlighted the gravity of the legal proceedings surrounding the former Taipei mayor.
Han emphasized the DPP's consistent position on judicial matters, urging all parties to respect ongoing investigations and confront them with honesty. Premier Cho, Taiwan's cabinet head, stated that the government avoids evaluating specific cases but expressed hopes for law-abiding conduct. Both officials stressed the importance of maintaining justice and legal order throughout the proceedings.
The Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) expressed appreciation to the presiding judge for ensuring Ko received a fair trial. Secretary-General Chou Yu-hsiu (周榆修) claimed Ko's case demonstrates President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) fears while suggesting potential appeals against the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office (臺北地方檢察署). Chou acknowledged that Ko's wife, Chen Pei-chi (陳佩琪), faces difficulty raising the bail but noted the relief Ko's return home would bring. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30.5)