Thousands join Taiwan nuclear protest

Marchers shouted their support for the president

A huge demonstration of anti-nuclear protesters has taken place in Taiwan in support of President Chen Shui-bian, who has been under attack for scrapping a nuclear power station.

A crowd estimated to be up to 100,000-strong turned out in wet conditions to stage their show of support for the embattled president.

Mr Chen: His political opponents have joined forces

President Chen has been under fire from his political opponents since scrapping the plant, which was already under construction.

The demonstrators wore green or purple anti-nuclear headbands and chanted slogans as they staged their protests in the capital, Taipei, and the southern port city of Kaohsiung.

"I'm here not just to support the president, but to support the decision to scrap the nuclear plant. We're doing this for our kids, for the future generation," said businesswoman Yidee Huang.

The protesters distributed leaflets reminding the public of past nuclear disasters abroad.

A young protester is carried by her grandfather

"Mother Taiwan, do not build the nuclear plant," read one banner.

Buddhist nuns, Taiwanese academics and Western human rights activists were among the crowds.

The protest in Taipei ended outside the president's office, where demonstrators sang anti-nuclear songs before dispersing.

More than 100 policemen with riot shields cordoned off roads leading to the presidential palace.

United opposition

The anti-nuclear campaigners say Taiwan does not have the capacity to store nuclear waste, and the plant would threaten the environment.

The issue has been seized on by President Chen's political opponents.

Three opposition parties have joined forces to try to drive him out of office.

Parliament has already approved changes in the law which make it easier to remove him.