Appeal on behalf of Cheng Jianping, human rights defender in Chinese Labour Camp

Appeal on behalf of Cheng Jianping, human rights defender in Chinese Labour Camp

Greetings,

I am writing to express my grave concern for the safety and well being of Chinese human rights defender, Cheng Jianping, who was arrested on the 28th October this year and has been sentenced to a year in a labour camp ('education through labour') in China, without trial.

I understand that the Chinese system is such that, with regard to 'Laojiao' (education through labour), people can be sentenced for up to four years, without trial. Therefore, no lawyer can intervene, there is no prosecution and no need for evidence.

I am particularly concerned for Cheng Jianping because she is said to be suffering a chronic lung condition. A health check in custody reportedly revealed heart disease, gall stone and high blood pressure. It is also thought she may still be on a hunger strike.

I respectfully request that you to do all you can to ensure that Cheng Jianping is given urgent medical treatment.

I also implore you to intervene and do all within your power to demand Cheng Jianping's immediate and unconditional release, as her detainment is an affront to human rights and dignity. I understand that Ms Cheng's only 'crime' was to 'disturb social order' by sending a tweet.

Furthermore, please also do all you can to ensure that the Chinese judicial system complies with international law, especially with regard to arbitrary detention and attention to health care of prisoners.