An author who was one of the first signatories to Charter 08, Zhao Shiying (pen name Zhao Dagong) was released yesterday, January 25, after being held by authorities for two weeks. Mr. Zhao's wife confirmed his release, but did not mention any details of the case, saying only, "He's resting at home." Zhao is well known for being an outspoken critic of the current regime. He also serves as Secretary General of the Independent Chinese PEN Center, an organization that promotes freedom of speech worldwide. It is unclear why Mr. Zhao was detained in the first place, nor is it clear why he was suddenly released. Such harassment, however, is not unusual for Chinese dissidents.