TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei District Court summoned Taiwan People's Party (TPP, 民眾黨) Secretary-General Chou Yu-hsiu (周榆修) Thursday (Sept. 11) to testify in a criminal investigation involving the Chung Wang Charity Foundation (眾望關懷慈善基金會). Prosecutors are examining allegations that the charitable foundation provided illegal financial support for former Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je's (柯文哲) political campaign activities. The case represents another legal challenge for Taiwan's third-largest political party and its leadership structure.
Chou admitted the foundation aided Ko's campaign, comparing the arrangement to the New Frontier Foundation's (新境界基金會) historical support for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨), Taiwan's ruling party. The secretary-general drew parallels to past practices, stating that no one had found it unusual when the DPP received similar assistance. Prosecutors nevertheless suspect Chou of perjury, alleging the foundation was established under Ko's direct instructions and misused public funds for party expenses.
Ko defended his integrity by criticizing prosecutors for fabricating stories against him, implying that even innovative political ventures face unwarranted criticism. The former physician expressed relief about his medical background, emphasizing that doctors help rather than harm people, while dismissing suggestions of paranoia. Chou acknowledged the foundation's campaign role but highlighted his previous positions with the Democratic Progressive Party and New Frontier Foundation, arguing that law permits foundation employees to hold additional positions.
Prosecutors challenged Chou's credibility by highlighting significant inconsistencies between his testimony and statements from Lee Wen-chung (李文宗) and other foundation employees. The prosecution team urged the court to carefully evaluate all available evidence in determining the case's outcome. The legal proceedings continue as Taiwan's judicial system examines potential campaign finance violations involving one of the island's major political parties. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30)
