Allegations of Extramarital Affair? Ko Wen-je: 'Too Long Ago to Remember'

CNA Taichung, May 30. When asked about allegations of an extramarital affair, former Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je said today that it was too long ago to remember. He criticized political commentators for making accusations on television without evidence or accountability, noting that they have been talking about it for over a decade. Political commentator Wu Ching-yi posted on Facebook on the 28th, questioning Ko about an affair based on her experience handling his public relations events. Regarding being called a "scumbag," Ko told reporters while campaigning for TPP Taichung City Council candidate Liu Chin-yu that he has been called much worse names. Furthermore, regarding former legislator Tsai Pi-ru appearing with former TPP spokesperson Yang Pao-chen, who has left the party, Ko said that if there are opinions, they should be discussed in the Central Committee. He retorted to Tsai's claims of poor communication and a culture of leaking by asking, "Are you talking about yourself?" He also stated that there had been no discussions between the TPP and the KMT regarding the Changhua election, and expressed frustration that Tsai suddenly announced her candidacy without consultation. Ko noted that it is natural for people to be angry that Tsai brought Yang, who left the party, onto a program. Regarding party discipline, Ko said, "We shouldn't resort to party discipline every time. Political parties are naturally noisy, and families fight. If there is a problem, bring it out and talk about it; 80% can be solved." Regarding media personality Huang Kuang-chin's claim that TPP's Huang Kuo-chang said, "Fu Kun-chi told me I could be a vice-presidential candidate," Ko said it was hearsay and he did not know the details. He added that he is rarely involved in party affairs now, focusing instead on helping candidates with election issues. Regarding an incident in April where a police chief accidentally sprayed pepper spray during Ko's campaign event at Fengjia Night Market, he noted that for this visit, equipment was checked, and no pepper spray was carried.