Taiwan Legal Amendments Criticized as "Ko Wen-je Clauses" to Benefit Corrupt Figures

Opposition legislators in Taiwan have introduced amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure, dubbed the "Ko Wen-je clauses," which seek to remove "collusion" as a valid reason for pre-trial detention. This move has sparked significant debate and criticism, particularly from legal professionals who fear it will undermine public safety.

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The court approved detention cases are mostly fraud and drug cases. I question that the blue and white parties removed 'collusion' as a reason for detention, and the result is that a large number of drug and fraud group members will be released.

Lawyer Lin Chih-chiun voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, highlighting that fraud and drug trafficking cases are the most common reasons for court-approved detentions. He argued that removing "collusion" as a detention ground would directly lead to the release of numerous individuals involved in these serious crimes. Lin pointed out that in 2023, over 4,800 people were detained for fraud and over 1,500 for drug offenses, with collusion often being a key factor in these detentions.

Critics, including Lin, have accused the legislators behind the amendments of prioritizing the interests of one specific individual, former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je, who is reportedly involved in a corruption case. They argue that this narrow focus is detrimental to the nation, with one widely shared online sentiment stating, "It doesn't matter if the country is ruined for one corrupt old man."

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For one corrupt old man, it doesn't matter if the country is ruined.

Online reactions have echoed this sentiment, with netizens expressing concerns that the amendments could turn Taiwan into a "criminal paradise." Many criticized the legislative actions as "stupid" and harmful to the public, questioning the motives behind pushing for laws that appear to benefit alleged criminals over the safety of citizens. The amendments are seen by some as a move that could have far-reaching negative consequences for Taiwan's justice system and public security.

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To let Taiwanese people become a criminal paradise?