TAIPEI: In a reunion of sorts, the president, vice-president and foreign minister of the former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government all appeared at the Taipei District Court yesterday to answer accusations of wrongdoing.

Taiwan's ex-president Chen Shui-bian was taken to court from the detention centre to face bribery charges, as his corruption trial got going after two months of pre-trial sessions.

Chen, who stepped down last May after eight years in office, is accused of pocketing about NT$490 million (S$21.9 million) in bribes and special presidential funds together with his wife. They are also charged with money laundering. The ex-president could face life imprisonment if he is found guilty.

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