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Closing Arguments Begin in Bo Xilai Trial


The corruption trial of ousted Communist Politburo official Bo Xilai has entered its 5th day, with closing arguments scheduled to begin.

Bo is accused of taking bribes from a wealthy businessman, embezzlement, and abuse of power.

In his testimony Sunday, Bo called his former top aide, ex-Chongqing police chief Wang Lijun, a liar. Wang had told the court that Bo tried to cover up his wife's involvement in the 2011 murder of a British businessman.

Bo said his wife is "insane" and her testimony "laughable."

Bo admitted making mistakes, but denied any criminal activities.

Chinese Communist leaders removed Bo as party secretary of Chongqing last year and threw him out of the Politburo when Wang accused him of involvement in the murder. Bo is also charged with stealing $800,000 in government money set aside for a construction project.



Prosecutors say British businessman Briton Neil Heywood was killed over a financial dispute with Bo's wife, who was convicted of the murder last year and given a suspended death sentence. She will likely spend the rest of her life in prison.

The trial in the eastern city of Jinan is unusual for China. It is closed to Western media, but courtroom transcripts are being posted on social media. Chinese observers say China's top political leaders have already decided that Bo is guilty and he will get a long prison term.

The trial, which began last Thursday, was originally expected to last two days.
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