Washington, DC - The United States is deeply concerned by the sentencing of online activist Huang Qi to 12 years in prison.  Huang has been honored multiple times by Reporters Without Borders for his courage in exposing corruption and human rights violations in China through his website, 64 Tianwang.

The imprisonment of Huang Qi underscores China’s continued repression of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including free speech.  We urge the Chinese government to uphold its international commitments related to fair trial guarantees and the rule of law.  We call on China to immediately release Mr. Huang, and to allow him access to his family, medical care, and legal counsel as soon as possible.  We also call on China to end undue restrictions on the freedom of movement of his family and those who assisted him.