In pictures: Taiwan polls spark protests

1 of 11 Taiwan's election generated a high turnout at the polls - and another high turnout on the streets to dispute the result.

2 of 11 Supporters of the opposition Kuomintang suspect the government of dirty tricks.

3 of 11 Protests became violent in the port city of Kaohsiung when demonstrators tried to reach the court to demand legal action.

4 of 11 Clashes also broke out in Taichung, as nationalists tried to reach the local district court.

5 of 11 A disconsolate Lien Chan could do little but wait with running mate James Soong for his party lawyers to file their legal motions.

6 of 11 The Kuomintang is challenging the count of the Central Election Committee, which declared Chen Shui-bian the winner.

7 of 11 President Chen attended a party celebration, but was soon embroiled in rumours that the apparent attempt on his life was a publicity stunt.

8 of 11 Officials tried to dampen the controversy by releasing photos of doctors operating on the injured Mr Chen, while he talked on his mobile phone.

9 of 11 They also handed out pictures of Vice-President Annette Lu being treated for a knee wound.

10 of 11 In Taipei, riot police stood guard around the presidential palace as a noisy protest took place nearby.

11 of 11 But with no resolution in sight, analysts warn there could be difficult weeks ahead for Taiwan's young democracy.