August 2013

Sentence Reductions in Guangdong Mighy Simply be PR Stunts

According to Duihua.org, seven high-profile prisoners are set to receive sentence reductions in Guangdong province in the coming years. Despite this proposed leniency, let it be known that these sentence reductions align perfectly with Xi Jinping’s grandiose prison reform rhetoric and quite possibly are political stunts meant to bring legitimacy to China’s new change of leadership. You can read more about the sentence reductions by clicking here.

Nationwide Arrest of Activists, Critics Multiply

In stark contrast to President Xi Jinping's rhetoric lauding the constitution and promoting the rule of law, Chinese authorities have initiated a widespread crackdown on dissent targeting lawyers and other vocal advocates of rule of law reform. According to reports, at least 55 such activists have been detained in 2013, 17 of whom are members of the New Citizens Movement, a loose collection of activists who have worked to strengthen Chinese civil society. Xu Zhiyong, the founder of the New Citizens Movement, faces five years in jail for "gathering crowds to disturb public order."

Trial of Bo Xilai May Start Early

The trial of disgraced politician Bo Xilai will likely begin in secret on Wednesday, sources say. Bo's public trial will likely begin on Thursday, but officials will reportedly commence the trial on Wednesday behind closed doors due the sensitive nature of the charges related to flouting the authority of the central government.

Bo Xilai has been charged with abuse of power, corruption, and involvement in the murder of British business man Neil Heywood. The charges stem from his term of office as Chongqing's Party Secretary and member of the Central Poliburo from 2007-2012.