TAIPEI: Former Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian must wait until September 11 to learn his fate. On that date, the Taipei District Court will render its verdict in the corruption and money-laundering trial of the former leader.

Presiding Judge Tsai Shou-shun made the announcement at the end of a 14-hour marathon debate to wrap up the trial proceedings.

Tsai said the court will also declare whether Chen will be released or be required to remain in custody.

Chen had been indicted on charges of embezzlement, bribery, money laundering and forgery, crimes alleged to have taken place during his term as Taiwan leader.

Chen has been in detention since December 30 of last year.

Speaking in his own defense during closing arguments, Chen apologized to the people of Taiwan for his conduct and on behalf of himself and his family. He expressed regret that his behavior did not meet the highest possible moral standards.

Chen and his wife Wu Shu-jen have been charged with siphoning off NT$104 million ($3.15 million) from a special "Presidential Office" discretionary fund during his term from 2000 to 2008.

They are also charged with accepting bribes amounting to NT$300 million in connection with a land deal between the Hsinchu Science Park and Dayu Development Corp. They were charged with receiving kickbacks totalling NT$90.93 million between 2002 and 2003 for their efforts to help a contractor win the tender to build the Nangang Exhibition Hall.

The couple also allegedly took bribes of NT$310 million from former Taipei Financial Center Corp Chairwoman Diana Chen and former Chinatrust Financial Holdings Co Vice Chairman Jeffrey Koo Jr.

The prosecution has contended the couple secretly stashed the funds overseas with the help of intermediaries, including members of their own family, all of whom have also been indicted for offenses relating to the case.

China Daily/CNA

(HK Edition 07/30/2009 page2)