Major Taiwan newspapers published editorials on Saturday to press the island's leader Chen Shui-bian to step down after his wife Wu Shu-chen was indicted on corruption and forgery charges Friday.

The editorial of the China Times pointed out that Chen's alleged crimes were so obvious that it was high time to step down, even though his position gave him immunity from prosecution.

Politicians on the island should not use "security" or "stability" as excuses for corruption, it said.

The Civil News, or "Minsheng News", on Saturday said it was time for Chen to shoulder his responsibilities as his family's alleged involvement in the corruption scandal was so evident that it was fueling public anger, resentment and distrust towards the Taiwan authority.

It said social paralysis and a stagnant economy were the results of Chen's immoral and incapable family, and the Taiwan people wanted Chen to take the initiative to resign.

The United Daily News carried an article alleging Chen and his wife had infamously committed crimes together.

Another article said the alleged corruption "made people sick", and the Taiwan people would not let a liar remain leader.

The newspaper's latest public opinion poll showed a record 60 percent of people wanting Chen to step down.

Wu, Chen's wife, has been charged with embezzlement, forgery of documents and perjury, involving 14.8 million New Taiwan dollars (448,500 U.S. dollars) by the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office.

His three former aides were also indicted on charges involving the alleged mishandling of a secret office fund.

Source: Xinhua