Taiwan to decide on detention of ex-presidential candidate amid graft probe

Taiwanese investigators are currently deliberating on whether to extend the detention of Ko Wen-je, a former presidential candidate and chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party, amid allegations of graft. Ko was taken into custody following a scandal involving the expansion of the Core Pacific Center shopping center during his tenure as mayor of Taipei from 2014 to 2022. His home and party offices were raided prior to his questioning, which began on Friday. Supporters of Ko have gathered outside the prosecutor's office, protesting against what they perceive as judicial oppression and demanding his release. The allegations stem from a deal that allowed a developer to significantly increase the shopping center's leaseable space, raising concerns about corruption in local governance. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has called for a halt to construction on the site, which is still under development. Ko's political career has been marked by his appeal to younger voters, despite lacking a clear political platform and facing challenges in forming alliances with other parties. The current political climate in Taiwan has seen a decline in public concern over corruption, attributed to the strengthening of independent investigative bodies. The DPP, which won the recent election, has emphasized the importance of upholding the law, regardless of political affiliation. Lai Ching-te, the newly elected DPP leader, has refrained from commenting on the specifics of Ko's case, highlighting the need for evidence-based legal action. As the investigation unfolds, the implications for Ko's political future and the Taiwan People’s Party remain uncertain, particularly in a landscape dominated by the DPP and the Nationalist Party. The outcome of this case could influence public perception of political integrity and accountability in Taiwan.