On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to submit an urgent appeal regarding the judicial persecution and political suppression faced by renowned Taiwanese politician, Chairman Ko Wen-je. Ko is the current chairman of the Taiwan People's Party and has run for president multiple times. He has played a significant role on the political stage in Taiwan, advocating for transparency, integrity, and reform. However, recent events have raised serious concerns about the fairness and independence of Taiwan’s judicial system.

According to multiple media reports, Ko Wen-je was subjected to 70 hours of intense interrogation by Taiwan's judicial authorities, including 19 consecutive hours of overnight questioning, which severely violated his human rights. The investigation stems from unverified allegations accusing Ko of modifying regulations regarding the floor area ratio of "Jinghua City" to benefit developers, and further claiming that Ko knowingly committed illegal acts. However, the actions of the prosecutors and investigators in this case exceeded the bounds of normal legal procedures. They raided Ko's home, office, and party headquarters, with the search going beyond the scope authorized by the original warrant, raising serious doubts about the legitimacy of Taiwan’s judicial processes.

During the investigation, Ko requested that the overnight interrogation be halted, but prosecutors ignored his plea. As a result, he endured inhumane treatment while in custody, including being handcuffed, denied access to bathing facilities, and provided only bread and water for sustenance. These conditions have prompted deep concern within Taiwan about the protection of human rights. In a democratic society, the judiciary should remain independent and impartial, free from any form of political interference. However, Ko's case suggests that Taiwan's judiciary is at serious risk of political manipulation, which poses a grave threat to the future of Taiwan’s democratic development.

In addition, Taiwan's mainstream media has frequently reported unverified anonymous allegations claiming Ko is involved in financial issues with unexplained funds, yet no substantial evidence has been provided. Despite this, prosecutors cited unsubstantiated media reports as evidence to detain Ko, which further turned public opinion against him and deepened misunderstandings among the public. The Taiwan People's Party has repeatedly accused the media and judicial bodies of excessive collaboration, with this series of reports lacking factual basis, tarnishing Ko’s reputation, and framing the entire matter as politically motivated.

The Taipei District Court ultimately ruled to release Ko Wen-je without bail, a decision that demonstrated there was no immediate evidence of criminal suspicion. However, just two days later, the Taiwan High Court, at the request of the prosecution, ordered a retrial of the case. This has once again raised doubts about the independence of Taiwan’s judiciary. The people of Taiwan are deeply disappointed and urge the judicial institutions to adhere to evidence and legal procedures, avoiding any political manipulation.

We respectfully urge the international community to pay close attention to this matter and call on Taiwan’s authorities to stop the political persecution and judicial suppression of Ko Wen-je and his supporters. We ask your organization and other international human rights bodies to speak out and demand that the Taiwanese government ensures that Ko Wen-je and other political figures have their human rights protected. Furthermore, we urge that Taiwan's judiciary be restored to independence, fairness, and transparency.

We are confident that your organization’s support will help safeguard the freedom, democracy, and justice of Taiwanese society.

Sincerely, 
The People of Taiwan