Relatives of Ma Ying-jeou File for 'Auxiliary Declaration'; Taipei District Court Accepts Case

According to the Central News Agency, as the financial discipline issues surrounding the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation continue, former President Ma Ying-jeou's wife, Chou Mei-ching, and sister, Ma Yi-nan, issued a statement expressing their hope that Ma could retire peacefully. Ma's relatives have filed for an 'auxiliary declaration' with the Taipei District Court, which accepted the case this week. An 'auxiliary declaration' is a legal mechanism where the court appoints an assistant for individuals whose ability to express their will is significantly impaired due to mental or physical disabilities. Chou Mei-ching stated that to ensure proper medical and care arrangements for Ma, the family reached a consensus to appoint Ma Yi-nan as the primary executor. Ma Yi-nan indicated that the foundation's affairs should be handed over to the board of directors. However, a statement released by the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation shows that Ma expressed shock and regret, noting he had not been consulted. Ma firmly rejected the idea of Ma Yi-nan managing his medical affairs or speaking on behalf of the family, and refused to hand over the foundation's management to the current board. He also dismissed rumors of dementia, stating that at 76, he continues to read and exercise daily. Legal experts note that such cases do not necessarily require a court hearing and may involve medical evaluations.