Corruption probe expands into former Taiwan People’s Party legislator Li Zhenxiu. The Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office opened a miscellaneous investigation into allegations that Li falsified official documents. Authorities also suspect her of contravening the Anti-Corruption Act. The TPP Central Evaluation Committee voted to expel Li from the party on the same day. Li had claimed that Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao received NT$7 million from former TPP chairman Ko Wen-je.
The Central Election Commission formally requested that the Legislative Yuan revoke Li’s status as a legislator. The request cites Article 73, Paragraph 2 of the Public Officials Election and Recall Act. Li took office in February as a legislator-at-large for the TPP. She has faced controversy over her Chinese nationality since taking office. Accusations against her include concealing information and bypassing procedures during her candidate registration.
The Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office assigned the case to the chief prosecutor of the special division for organized crime and corruption cases. Reports indicate that prosecutors have not ruled out summoning Li for questioning. The TPP’s decision to expel Li follows her public statements about Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao. Kao has not commented publicly on the allegations.
The Central Election Commission’s request to revoke Li’s legislative status now moves to the Legislative Yuan for review. If approved, Li would lose her seat and any remaining legal protections. Political observers note that this case could have implications for other TPP members. The party has struggled to distance itself from the controversy surrounding Li. Ko Wen-je, the former TPP chairman, has not responded to the allegations.
Li has not issued a public statement since the investigation became public. Her legal team has not responded to requests for comment. The Legislative Yuan will likely review the revocation request in the coming weeks. Prosecutors will decide whether to summon Li for formal questioning in the coming days. Legal experts say the charges carry serious penalties if proven. The case will test the strength of Taiwan’s anti-corruption laws.
