One of the more surprising results in Saturday's local government elections was the amount of support garnered by the quixotic "king of protesting" in his failed bid to become Hualien County commissioner.
Although self-described professional protester Ko Szu-hai (
Often referred to as "the dog man" by Taipei residents, Ko made a name for himself after bringing a pack of dogs to the Presidential Office more than 10 years ago to protest the treatment of stray animals.
Since that time, he has embarked on a shameless effort to grab publicity by any possible means, appearing with signs and placards behind reporters making live broadcasts or showing up uninvited at press conferences, often with a menagerie in tow.
His "propaganda-mobiles" -- vans covered in huge signs crammed with Chinese characters -- are a common sight on the streets of Taipei.
Recently, Ko was often found wherever Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou (
Authorities did in fact confiscate a cow belonging to Ko after it was found wandering in the streets, which is illegal in Taipei.
The unexpected show of support for Ko is not likely to go down well with one segment of society, however: bookies.
Unfortunately for local bookies, the number of votes that Ko gained was much higher than their estimates of 5,000 votes, and many lost a substantial amount of money as a result, according to TVBS and Central News Agency reports.
Early yesterday, Ko embarked on the customary post-election tour to thank supporters in Hualien County, TVBS reported.
Although he lost, Ko said that the outcome was favorable and that he planned to run for president in 2012.
Not even the chilly weather could cool Ko's enthusiasm.
"I did it [his campaign] in only three months," Ko said. "When I made public speeches, bystanders applauded me. I am very happy."
Ko is probably the happiest defeated candidate in the elections, and not even his conviction for accounting fraud earlier this year seemed to bother him.
When he learned of his defeat on Saturday evening, Ko was not at his campaign headquarters -- he was at a traditional Taiwanese buffet, eating dinner alone.
"No matter what the election result might be, I want to express my appreciation to my supporters," Ko said.
Many people were surprised at the extent of Ko's support, and said that it was hard to believe he could garner so many votes in Hualien County.
Ko said that in the future, he would "take root" in Hualien, and that his short-term plan is to run in the Hualien City councilor elections next year.
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