TAIPEI - Hundreds of supporters of Taiwan's former president Chen Shui-bian protested outside court on Friday during an appeal against his detention on graft charges.

Some 300 protesters held placards reading 'judicial persecution' and 'release A-Bian' - the ex-leader's nickname.

Chen left office last year after serving a maximum eight-year term.

He was locked up in December accused of embezzlement, money laundering, accepting bribes, influence peddling and forgery.

He denies the charges, alleging a political witch-hunt.

The court has twice rejected his applications for bail on the grounds that he could collude with other suspects and destroy evidence or flee the island - claims that he has dismissed.

There are no limits under Taiwanese law on how long he can be detained.

The former president has refused to speak in recent court sessions in an apparent protest against his detention and trial.

He insists the allegations against him and his family are politically motivated and orchestrated by his China-friendly successor, President Ma Ying-jeou. -- AFP