Returning to the TPP Anniversary Stage! Ko Wen-je Emotionally Declares, 'We've Passed the Hardest Time,' Challenges Lai Qing-de: 'We Will Never Surrender'

The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) held its anniversary event today (2nd), with former chairperson Ko Wen-je attending and delivering a speech—marking his first public appearance since being released from detention last year.

Ko Wen-je stated that the past period had been extremely difficult for himself, his family, and the party. "But Lai Qing-de, we will absolutely never surrender!" he declared. The TPP, he said, has already passed through its most difficult phase. From today onward, more political stars will emerge, and more responsible individuals will take on roles at the local level. One after another, they will carry forward the unfinished work. Seven years ago, the TPP began with one person; today, it has become a collective force. Moving forward, this collective will extend into every corner of Taiwan. The Taiwan People's Party will always stand with Taiwan and its people.

The anniversary event was held in Taichung, drawing approximately 1,000 party members. Ko expressed deep emotion seeing so many people travel from across Taiwan. When the party was founded seven years ago, no one knew how far it could go. Some dismissed it as a fleeting political phenomenon; others claimed Taiwan could never have a viable alternative beyond the traditional Blue (KMT) and Green (DPP) camps. There were even predictions that the party would vanish if Ko did not run for office.

Yet, seven years later, "we are still here—and still growing," Ko affirmed.

Most importantly, the TPP is no longer a one-person party. It has evolved into a collective of individuals from different cities, professions, and generations, all committed to serving Taiwan. "One person can go fast, but a group can go far." Seven years ago, this was merely a slogan. Today, it has become reality. For a party to endure, it needs people who work diligently behind the scenes, continue grassroots service after elections, and remain steadfast in doing what is right—even in the darkest moments.

Ko acknowledged that for a long time, he was unable to work alongside the party. Yet, the TPP did not stop or collapse. Party Chairperson Huang Kuo-chang and other members shouldered responsibilities, continuing legislative work. Local branches and candidates remained active in communities, and countless 'little grasses'—grassroots supporters—continued their efforts across Taiwan.

Today marks not only the 7th anniversary of the TPP but also symbolizes its transformation from a one-person initiative into an institutionalized collective. Ko explained that he founded the party seven years ago because he realized Taiwan is not lacking in talent or resources. Instead, many problems remain unsolved due to political polarization and short-term electoral interests, which overshadow what people truly need.

As a doctor, he said, when patients arrive at the emergency room, no one asks about their political affiliation—everyone just does their best to save lives. Politics should be grounded in people's daily lives. This is a simple principle, yet precisely what is most missing in Taiwan's current political landscape.

[Related Exclusive Reports from Storm Media] · At the TPP anniversary, Lu Hsiu-yen was seated as a guest of honor; Huang Kuo-chang revealed ongoing cooperation: "We will continue exchanging views on major policies." · Lu Hsiu-yen, attending the TPP event, declared, "Blue-White cooperation will move forward firmly," calling for a "nationwide no-confidence vote in 2026" and "nationwide resistance against Lai in 2028." · Ko Wen-je's wife, Chen Pei-chi, appeared at the event, visiting the "Ko Wen-je 3-Ping Library" and leaving a handwritten note: "Come back to me soon."