Labor activist Wang Jianbing was released from prison on Tuesday after serving three and a half years for “inciting subversion of state power,” a charge he faced in 2021 under Chinese law. Wang was arrested alongside fellow activist Huang (Sophia) Xueqin, a prominent #MeToo advocate. While both were convicted on similar charges, Wang was sentenced to a shorter term, and Huang received a five-year sentence.
In addition to their prison sentences, both activists face supplementary penalties, including restrictions on political rights, such as the right to vote and stand for election, as well as limitations on freedom of speech, assembly, and the press, as per China’s Criminal Law.
Amnesty International has voiced concerns over the validity of Wang’s conviction, asserting that the charges were based on his advocacy for migrant workers’ rights and his organization of gatherings and online posts deemed “sensitive” by the Chinese government. Wang has consistently stated that his activism focused on addressing social issues rather than challenging state power.
Despite his release, Amnesty remains concerned about ongoing harassment and arbitrary restrictions placed on activists like Wang even after their sentences are served. The organization has called on Chinese authorities to remove all restrictions on Wang, ensuring his full enjoyment of rights, including freedom of expression and association, as guaranteed under international human rights law.
Excerpts from Valerie Manyega article, U. Nairobi School of Law, KE, Jurist
