Chen Shui-bian, former President of the Republic of China in-exile, was transferred yesterday, Oct. 23, to a psychiatric unit at the government-operated Honorable Veterans Hospital. Chen was transferred after hospital doctors concurred that the ex-leader was suffering from severe depression. The hospital announced plans to return Chen to Taipei Prison after his depression is brought under control.
Chen Shui-bain is serving a 17 year sentence for alleged corruption following a controversial trial marred by allegations of perjured testimony, a politically-influenced judge, and an after-hours skit by courtroom personnel mocking Chen. Chen has been confined to a tiny cell 23 hours a day since 2008 in harsh conditions.