Chen Shui-bian’s readiness to speak in his defense yesterday contrasted with his refusal to answer any questions at the District Court, where he protested in silence at what he called an “unfair judicial system” and his “illegal detention.”
Chen Shui-bian has been detained since Dec. 30 last year.
During his detention hearing yesterday, he offered judges several suggestions, including house arrest or electronic tags. Although judges said these alternatives had been “considered,” they insisted it was necessary to detain the former president for another three months.
On Sept. 11, the District Court found Chen Shui-bian, his wife and 11 codefendants guilty. The former president and his wife were sentenced to life in prison and fined NT$500 million (US$15.4 million).
The latest ruling agitated Chen supporters gathered outside the court and they threw eggs and bottles of water to protest the ruling.
“Injustice! Political persecution!” they shouted after learning the verdict.
Several protesters lay down on the ground and put banners on their bodies reading “Injustice!” and “Human rights are dead,” while others chanted “Go go, A-Bian!”
Police blocked the entrance to the court and kept protesters away from the door as they pushed and tried to enter the court building.
Some supporters sat on the ground, and said they would start a long-term protest and would not leave until Chen was released.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY MO YAN-CHIH
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