TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Former Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) Chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) agreed on Monday (Sept. 8) to NT$70 million (around US$2.3 million) bail terms set by the Taipei District Court (台北地方法院) on Thursday (Sept. 5). Authorities installed surveillance equipment in a police vehicle that arrived at the courthouse at 12:20 p.m. to monitor the former Taipei mayor. The Taiwan People's Party represents a third political force in Taiwan's traditionally two-party system dominated by the Democratic Progressive Party and Kuomintang.
Ko appeared at the courthouse wearing a white shirt and shorts, displaying no visible signs of anxiety during the bail proceedings. His wife, Chen Pei-chi (陳佩琪), worked diligently throughout the day to gather the necessary NT$20 million (around US$658,000) shortfall for the bail amount. Chen used a combination of cash and wire transfers to complete the complex financial process at the district court, ensuring all requirements were met.
Chen expressed the strain the past year had placed on their family, stating it has been torturous for them, and she hopes Ko can face future judicial challenges in a safe and peaceful environment. Ko plans to visit his mother in Hsinchu, a city south of Taipei, and check on his father's situation after securing his release. The former mayor aims to fulfill a long-held wish to spend time with his family during this difficult period. ◼