The Governor of Puerto Rico Anibal Acevedo Vila has pleaded not guilty to corruption charges at the federal court in the capital San Juan.Governor Acevedo Vila faces 19 charges linked to allegations of misusing thousands of dollars in illegal election campaign contributions.  He is accused along with 12 of his associates.

On his arrival in court, hundreds of supporters of the governor staged a rally, waving flags and playing loud music

After his court appearance the governor was freed , but agreed to inform the authorities before travelling outside the island.

The charges relate to election campaigns between 2000 and 2004, and include conspiracy, making false statements and violation of campaign finance laws.

‘Unreported debts’ The Federal Bureau of Investigation said the accused sought to defraud the government “by having Puerto Rico businessmen make illegal and unreported contributions to pay off large and unreported debts” from Mr Acevedo Vila’s campaigns.

If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in jail.

In a recent televised speech, Mr Acevedo Vila, who is running for re-election in November, accused US investigators of diverting him from resolving Puerto Rico’s economic problems.

Mr Acevedo Vila has strongly opposed moves by Congress in Washington that he maintains would force Puerto Rico to lose its autonomy and become a US state.

Puerto Rico has been a US territory since the 19th Century, but gained greater autonomy in 1952..