Chinese activist Li Qiaochu, a vocal advocate for human rights and a former researcher at Beijing’s Tsinghua University, has reportedly undergone a closed-door trial in Linyi, Shandong. The proceedings, accused of “inciting subversion of state power,” are emblematic of China’s expansive measures to stifle dissent. Li’s lawyer, Li Guobei, reported being denied entry to the trial, raising concerns about the transparency of the legal process. As per reports, Li, 32, detained since March 2021, faces a potential imprisonment term exceeding five years. The trial concluded on Tuesday without a verdict, leaving Li in legal limbo. During her incarceration, Li has grappled with hallucinations, underscoring the harsh conditions she has endured. The case originated in December 2019 when Li was initially summoned by the police for questioning about her partner, fellow activist Xu Zhiyong. Subsequent detentions followed, with Li being released on bail before facing renewed arrest in March 2021. Her crime, according to Amnesty International, is rooted in her association with Xu Zhiyong and her alleged dissemination of his “subversive thoughts” online. Ahead of the trial, the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China called for Li’s “unconditional release” and emphasized her urgent need for medical treatment. The commission denounced the charges as “absurd,” particularly in light of Li exposing the torture faced by Xu and another activist, Ding Jiaxi, who received lengthy sentences for subversion in April. Ding’s wife, Luo Shengchun, echoed calls to end the persecution of Li Qiaochu, revealing that numerous requests for a meeting with Li by her family have been consistently rejected by authorities. Li’s trial sheds light on the oppressive environment faced by those advocating for human rights in China, according to Amnesty International. Li Qiaochu’s background includes work at Tsinghua University, where she researched women’s and workers’ rights. In 2017, she actively supported evicted migrant workers in securing new jobs and accommodation, contributing to China’s #MeToo movement by compiling and publishing data on sexual harassment allegations.
The case originated in December 2019 when Li was initially summoned by the police for questioning about her partner, fellow activist Xu Zhiyong. Subsequent detentions followed, with Li being released on bail before facing renewed arrest in March 2021
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