Taiwan's ex-leader dismisses lawyers to protest graft trial
Posted: 21 May 2009 1458 hrs

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TAIPEI: Former Taiwan president Chen Shui-bian on Thursday dismissed his lawyers to protest against his corruption trial which he claimed was a political witch hunt.

Chen told the court that he intended to dismiss his three lawyers and stop summoning witnesses in his case to protest at his "illegal prosecution, detention and trial".

A court spokesman said a public defender had been assigned to Chen's case, adding that the ex-leader could still apply to the judges to reinstate his lawyers.

Chen, who left office last May after a maximum eight years, stands accused of embezzling public funds, money laundering, accepting bribes on a land deal, influence peddling and forgery.

A district court ruled last week that Chen would remain in custody for another two months till late July, saying he was a flight risk and could collude with other suspects or destroy evidence if freed on bail.

He has since appealed to the island's High Court to overturn the ruling which he claimed was "prejudiced" against him.

The independence-minded Chen insists the charges against him are politically motivated, and orchestrated by the new administration of President Ma Ying-jeou, who favours better relations with China.

Chen's wife, son and daughter-in-law have also been accused in a far-reaching case which has captivated Taiwan for months.

Under Taiwanese law, there are no limits on how long Chen can be detained.

- AFP/yt