Statement Regarding the Judgment on the Lawsuit for Nullification of Election

The Taiwan High Court rendered its judgment this afternoon regarding the lawsuit for the nullification of the presidential and vice-presidential election. The Judicial Reform Foundation issues the following four-point statement in response:

1. Judicial proceedings are the last resort for resolving disputes within the system. Regardless of how dissatisfied the parties may be with the judgment, we strongly hope that both sides and the general public will respect the judiciary and refrain from making groundless speculations. Should the losing plaintiff side fail to accept the judgment result, they should pursue normal relief channels by filing an appeal with the Supreme Court, and avoid repeating the political turmoil and social unrest that followed March 20.
2. As the ruling comes close to the legislative election schedule at the end of the year, we do not wish to see anyone politicize this case, nor do we wish to see any candidates boost their political momentum by trampling upon the judiciary. Should such circumstances occur, aside from calling upon the media to exercise social responsibility through criticism and oversight, we also urge voters to remain calm and rational, and refrain from following suit blindly.
3. From the indictment, inspection (vote counting, voter registry verification, etc.), to the trial process, this case has received intense domestic and international attention and serves as a rare opportunity for democratic and rule-of-law education. The Judicial Reform Foundation will invite the legal counsel of both parties, relevant personnel, as well as judges, practitioners, and scholars to a symposium at an appropriate time, serving as a reference and lesson for improving future election litigation.
4. Entrusted by the Kingston Technology Company of the United States, the Judicial Reform Foundation will donate an amount equivalent to the vote-counting expenses to the party determined to have lost the lawsuit. If the losing plaintiff side today has no intention to appeal, in accordance with regulations, they may submit an application with relevant vouchers to the Judicial Reform Foundation within fifteen days after the judgment becomes final and conclusive. Upon verification, the Judicial Reform Foundation will promptly notify Kingston Technology Company to process the disbursement.