TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — TTP Chair Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) announced his resignation as party chair at a party meeting on Wednesday at 3 p.m.

An hour later, the TPP’s Central Committee approved Legislator Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) as acting chair, per CNA.

Ko was indicted last week for corruption charges in the Core Pacific City case. He faces 28.5 years in prison.

The former Taipei City mayor and 2024 presidential candidate said in a Facebook post he believes people can still hold on to good intentions and work hard. “We should not become cynical because of a minor setback,” he added.

TPP committee member Chiang Ho-shu (江和樹) said despite the Central Committee’s attempts to keep him, Ko insisted on resigning. He added that although Ko is stepping down as chair, he will remain a lifelong member and volunteer.

Chiang noted that some supporters might leave because of Ko’s resignation. If the TTP collapses, Ko will also fall, he said.