He is also accused of using his influence in bidding for a mining operation in Lampang.

CNN: Judged by the Company He Keeps

The trial started in January 2009, after Nastase was accused of using his political influence as a party leader in his own interest.

CNN: SHARE THIS

But as well as tackling heated and important issues with his songs, the artist-turned-activist has also been producing and starring in feature films since the early 1990s, using his celebrity to empower and influence others.

CNN: January 9, 2013 -- Updated 1126 GMT (1926 HKT)