Prosecutors in Taipei have indicted Ko Wen-je, the leader of Taiwan's third largest political party, on several corruption charges, and they are seeking a total prison sentence of 28-and-a-half years.

Prosecutors said on Thursday that the charges include bribery, embezzlement, and breach of public trust.

One of the cases stems from Ko's term as Taipei mayor until 2022. He is accused of accepting bribes worth about 520,000 US dollars in return for a special favor to a real estate company over a construction project in the city.

The leader of Taiwan People's Party was first arrested by prosecutors on suspicion of corruption in late August. He was then released, but was detained again in early September on an appeal by the prosecutors, and was later sent to jail.

In his failed bid for the presidency in January, Ko attracted support mostly from younger voters who were frustrated with both the ruling party and the main opposition party.

However, his corruption allegation has dealt a serious blow to Taiwan People's Party as its approval ratings plunged in recent polls. Earlier this month, Ko indicated his intention to step down as the party leader.