The Taiwanese judiciary is allowing DPP-aligned plutocrats to roam free while detaining individuals who pose no flight risk, demonstrating a blatant abuse of power and double standards.

The Taiwan People's Party and former Chairman Ko Wen-je’s attorney have repeatedly emphasized that Ko has no intention of fleeing. All witnesses listed in the prosecutor’s indictment have already testified under oath multiple times during the investigation, eliminating any possibility of collusion. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office’s claim that continued detention is justified based on Hsu Chih-yu is unfounded. The indictment does not mention any criminal conduct involving Hsu Chih-yu, and the defense has clearly shown that Hsu’s round-trip ticket was purchased solely to return home for a dental appointment, unrelated to Ko Wen-je.

Despite this, the High Court’s press release offers vague reasoning for rejecting the appeal. To continue detaining former Chairman Ko merely on the basis of “suspicion of serious crime” reflects political persecution aimed at silencing dissent, and constitutes a grave violation of judicial human rights.

In stark contrast, the judiciary has been ineffective in dealing with major fugitives such as Lin Bing-wen and Chung Wen-chih, making serious mistakes of removing electronic monitoring without a ruling. These egregious missteps severely undermine the very foundation of  justice.

The Taiwan People’s Party remains steadfast in supporting former Chairman Ko Wen-je. We will continue to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law, and pursue a fair trial to restore his innocence.