Former Taiwan presidential bet gets 17 years over corruptions raps

International

A TAIWANESE court has sentenced former presidential candidate Ko Wen je to 17 years in prison after finding him guilty of corruption and misuse of political donations.

The 65-year-old founder of the Taiwan People's Party was accused of accepting more than half a million dollars in bribes involving a real estate deal during his time as mayor, a report by BBC said.

He was also charged with misreporting campaign finances during his run for president in January 2024.

Ko has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Prosecutors had originally asked for more than 28 years in jail, saying Ko accepted 17.1 million Taiwan dollars in bribes. He was arrested in 2024 and has been out on bail since September.

The current chairman of the Taiwan People's Party previously described the charges against Ko as politically motivated.

Ko rose to prominence by positioning himself as a third option beyond Taiwan's two main political parties. He won more than 25 percent of the vote in the 2024 presidential election, a strong showing that observers said reflected voter demand for a more pluralistic political landscape.

After his defeat, Ko vowed to continue his political career and was expected to seek the presidency again in 2028.

His arrest has triggered protests from allies and supporters who accuse the ruling party of using the charges to suppress opponents.

Ahead of the verdict, one supporter said Ko was falsely accused and a victim of political persecution.)Jene-V N. Sayson, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)