On Friday, Huang Xueqin, a Chinese #MeToo activist was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment according to the verdict of the court and her release advocates. Likewise, Wang Jianbing, a labor activist who was on trial together with Huang received a 3 year and six months jail term.
The decision is still open for an appeal by the 35-year-old independent journalist will be appealed by her supporters.
Her sentence was more than what we anticipated remarked Free Hueng Xueqin & Wang Jianbing campaign spokesperson.
The campaign group constituted mostly of overseas-based activists said just prior to the judgement that, “(…) On the contrary, as oppression persists and injustice grows, more activists like them will continue to rise.” They further added that this came after their constant struggle for rights of labourers as well as females worldwide along with general society and called for non-recognition of their efforts. (beginning – c/o & through- g)
Who is Huang Xueqin?
In September 2021 alone, she was apprehended at about the same time as Wang. It happened when she had been just one day away from going to UK where she would have pursued her studies at Sussex University
Since then they have been in custody and undergone closed-doors trials last year without public or media presence. Their advocate claimed that his clients did not commit any illegal actions while participating in this hearing. (closing – h)
According to those advocating for them speaking on condition of anonymity. These seditious charges were related to Chinese youth meetings discussing social problems organized by Huang and her associate.
Huang previously reported on Chinese #MeToo cases and 2019 Hong Kong anti-government protests. At the end of 2019 she spent three months in detention being detained by police officers from China.
China crushes dissent
“Inciting subversion against state power” is a usual charge employed by the Chinese authorities against those who oppose them. The maximum sentence that could be attracted by this crime is five years. While in some cases an individual can be considered a ringleader or found guilty of more serious crimes and his/her sentence can therefore be extended.
Thereafter, their supporters claimed that they both stayed alone in their cells for a few months.
