One of the founders of the Democratic Party, outlawed by the regime. In prison he was tortured for 85 days. On leaving prison he was beaten because he cried out for the end of single party rule in China. He promises to continue his work as an activist.

Beijing (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The dissident He Depu, a founder of the (outlawed) Democratic Party was released yesterday after serving eight years in prison. Right outside the prison he got into a discussion with the police and was beaten.

He, writer and political activist, was convicted in November 2002 for having collaborated with members of the Democratic Party and for written in defence of democracy. Jailed in Beijing No. 2 prison, he told Radio Free Asia he was tortured for at least 85 days, describing them as "the worst days of my life."

On leaving the prison, the police wanted to force him to return home in their van, but the dissident refused, which lead to an argument. At one point,  He Depu shouted out for an end to the dictatorship of single party rule and was beaten. Wounded in the hand, he was able to make it to his house.

Even his friends and activists, who were waiting in front of the house, got clashed with police. Prior his friends had been warned not to meet with the dissident. He's wife, Jia Jianying, was summoned by police.

He Depu has promised to continue his battle for democracy.

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