TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Former Taiwan People's Party chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) is in stable condition after a health scare prompted detention officials to arrange an emergency hospital visit over the weekend. The Taipei Detention Center (台北看守所) confirmed Monday (March 31) that Ko, a prominent political figure currently in custody on corruption charges, has been under close medical supervision since reporting health concerns on Saturday evening. Despite initial physiological readings falling within normal parameters, detention center authorities classified Ko as a high-risk patient due to his medical history and arranged for him to be transported under guard to a local hospital at 9:55 p.m. for a comprehensive evaluation.
After thorough examination, medical professionals concluded that Ko's condition did not warrant hospitalization, allowing him to return to the detention facility shortly before midnight at 11:57 p.m. The incident has prompted intervention from Ko's political allies, with current TPP chairman Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) formally requesting enhanced medical care for his predecessor. When questioned about this request during a press briefing, Taipei Detention Center Deputy Director Chen Chi-sen (陳啟森) emphasized that any decisions regarding specialized medical treatment would be determined exclusively by healthcare professionals based on medical necessity rather than political considerations.
Ko's current legal troubles stem from alleged violations of the "Anti-Corruption Act" (貪污罪), specifically in connection with the high-profile Core Pacific development case and questionable political donation practices. These serious allegations led to his detention at the Taipei facility pending further investigation. Recognizing the delicate nature of having a former Taipei mayor and presidential candidate in custody with potential health concerns, detention center officials have established a comprehensive medical monitoring protocol for Ko. This includes scheduled follow-up appointments and regular health examinations to ensure appropriate care during his confinement, balancing security requirements with medical necessities.
