Could Taipei's Former Mayor, Ko Wen-je, Face Over a Decade in Prison? Analyzing the Implications of the Jinghua City Case

Expert Analysis Suggests Potential for Significant Penalties in Corruption Case; "Benefit Conferral" Charges Pose Serious Threat.

The founder of the Taiwan People's Party, Ko Wen-je, is currently facing charges related to the Jinghua City case. Following an indictment by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office for corruption, Ko Wen-je expressed strong emotions during his initial court appearance on the 21st, sharply criticizing the prosecution. This case has sparked considerable public interest and debate across Taiwan.

Former legislator Kuo Cheng-liang offered his assessment of the situation. He suggests that even if the specific accusations of bribery against Ko Wen-je are dismissed, the potential for convictions on charges of "benefit conferral," "misappropriation of political donations," and "forgery" could still result in a combined sentence exceeding 10 years. Kuo Cheng-liang emphasized that "currently, there's little indication that the 'benefit conferral' charges won't be upheld."

During a political commentary program, Kuo Cheng-liang highlighted several procedural aspects of the ongoing legal process. He raised concerns about the alleged breach of confidentiality during the investigation by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office, questioning the mechanisms for addressing such violations. Further scrutiny was given to the possibility of appealing the indictment. He noted that this is a unique feature of Taiwan's legal system, as many other countries don't allow such appeals, and emphasized that decisions regarding detention after the indictment should be up to the district court. He emphasized that only Ko Wen-je’s lawyers can appeal, not the Taipei District Prosecutors Office.