Ko Wen-je, a former Taiwanese presidential candidate, has been indicted on corruption charges tied to multiple scandals, including a property redevelopment project during his tenure as Taipei mayor.

Prosecutors in Taiwan indicted former presidential candidate and Taiwan People’s Party founder Ko Wen-je on corruption charges, accusing him of taking bribes during his time as mayor of Taiwan’s capital.

Ko Wen-je, once a rising star in Taiwanese politics and a presidential contender, was indicted Thursday on corruption charges. The 65-year-old is accused of accepting half a million dollars in bribes involving a real estate dealing during his term as mayor of Taipei, as well as misreporting campaign finances during his run for president in January.

The prosecutors asserted that Ko Wen-je, a former mayor, took bribes. He and his supporters have maintained that the charges are a political vendetta.

Taiwan prosecutors on Thursday indicted former presidential candidate Ko Wen-je on charges of corruption and misusing political donations and said they were seeking 28 years' jail for him.

Chairman Ko Wen-je has been indicted on bribery and corruption charges linked to real estate dealings and campaign finance irregularities. Prosecutors seek a 28.5-year prison sentence, alleging NT$93.

Ko Wen-je, who also has experience as a doctor, entered the political scene to win Taipei's 2014 mayoral race. He served two terms from 2014 to 2022. He is being accused of accepting bribes during his time as mayor of the island's capital.

The leader of the Taiwan People’s Party, who made clean governance a key part of his appeal to voters, is accused of taking bribes.