Not Criticizing Me! After Ko Wen-je's Rebuke, Tsai Pi-ju Says Chairman Worries About Systems, Not Individuals

Tsai Pi-ju, a central committee member and former legislator for the Taiwan People First Party (TPP), addressed recent internal party dynamics, clarifying that Chairman Ko Wen-je's remarks were focused on institutional improvement rather than personal criticism. Ko had previously questioned Tsai's public statements, asking if she was "making noise here instead of speaking at the central party headquarters."

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Chairman Ko's actions reveal that he must pay more attention to the establishment of systems.

Tsai interpreted Ko's comments as a signal that the party must prioritize building robust systems, especially with the crucial 2026 local elections looming. She views these elections as a key battleground for the TPP's long-term survival and its ability to avoid becoming a political "bubble." Tsai, who has worked with Ko for many years, understands his emphasis on systems, organization, and the party's future development.

Recent departures of founding members, local cadres, and young members have raised concerns, which Tsai believes are serious warnings for any political party. She stressed that a party's growth relies on its systems and accumulated trust, not solely on individuals or temporary public attention. Ko's leadership has established a preliminary foundation for the TPP in Taiwan's political landscape through two presidential and legislative elections and one local election.

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The 2026 local elections are a key battle for the Taiwan People First Party to achieve long-term governance and avoid the risk of becoming a bubble.

Tsai highlighted the need for more comprehensive and transparent mechanisms for handling internal matters, such as nominating candidates for local leadership roles. She suggested that smoother internal communication channels and functioning systems could prevent disputes from escalating into public media issues. The upcoming 2026 local elections represent a significant test for the TPP, determining its transition from a "third force" to a party capable of long-term governance.

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The party's development has never relied on individuals, but on systems; not on temporary popularity, but on long-term accumulated trust.

Ultimately, Tsai urged that the focus should be on making the TPP more mature, institutionalized, and competitive. She believes this is Ko's primary concern and the direction all genuine supporters of the party should strive for, a party that embraces diverse opinions, respects institutional operations, and moves forward united.

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The 2026 local elections will be the most important test since the TPP's establishment, and a crucial turning point in determining whether the TPP can transition from a third force to a long-term governing party.