TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) officials scrambled Friday (Sept. 5) to raise NT$70 million (around US$2.29 million) in bail money after Taipei District Court (台北地院) approved the release of former party chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲). The party faced a critical shortfall of NT$20 million (around US$656,000) as the deadline approached. The high-stakes fundraising effort highlighted the political and financial pressures surrounding Ko's legal troubles.
Party Secretary-General Chou Yu-hsiu (周榆修) acknowledged the daunting financial challenge facing the organization in securing the substantial bail amount. Chou stated that while the party hoped to raise the NT$70 million (around US$2.29 million) quickly, they recognized the enormous sum would require considerable time to collect. The secretary-general expressed concerns about Ko's compliance with bail conditions, urging the former chairman to heed party guidance and allow time for proper arrangements.
Kao Hsiang (高翔), wife of current party chairman Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌), had previously handled Ko's bail arrangements in earlier legal proceedings. Chou acknowledged widespread enthusiasm and support from numerous allies in the current fundraising effort while stressing strict adherence to court regulations. The secretary-general emphasized the party's determined efforts to secure necessary funds despite significant financial and logistical obstacles in meeting judicial requirements. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30.5)
