Chen Shui-Bian, Taiwan's president from 2000 to 2008, this week pleaded not guilty at a hearing marking the start of his trial on corruption charges. Mr Chen, who ruled on a confrontational platform of independence from China, looked tired and dispirited, but was as combative as ever. "There is no way I can accept these charges and insults," he told judges, after arriving at a Taipei court in handcuffs. His supporters are trying to ensure it is not just Mr Chen's probity but also the integrity of Taiwanese justice that are on trial.rnIn one case he is alleged to have influenced the government to buy land from a company that bribed his wife, Wu Shu-chen.
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