Regime “shuts down” Weiwei’s webcam
Beijing (AsiaNews) - The Chinese government has ordered Ai Weiwei -
architect, artist and dissident of international fame - to shut down the 4 webcams
that he had installed in the house to protest against the repression and
control that the regime has imposed on him during more than 80 days of house
arrest. According
to authorities, Ai was found guilty of tax evasion: the sentence of
imprisonment was suspended in exchange for payment of huge fines and house arrest.
However,
many believe the real reason behind these accusations is the artist's commitment
in the field of human rights.
Speaking
to the BBC, Ai claims not to know the reason for the ban: "I do not even
know why I have been kept hidden for these 81 days. It is never possible to
have a clear and rational discussion." According
to the dissident, the design of the camera "is a negotiation, a comparison
between private, public nature of the security and state power." In
addition, the cameras reassured "family, friends and even authorities. Who
can see all my movements."
The
case of Ai Weiwei has attracted international attention and has turned the
spotlight on the human rights situation in the country. However,
in addition to the artist, in 2011, 3,832 other dissidents were jailed. Of
these, 159 were repeatedly tortured resulting in permanent physical damage. In
addition, 86% of these arrests has no legal basis. Among
those arrested without grounds are two Catholic bishops - Mgr. James Su
Zhimin, 80, who has spent 40 years in prison and Msgr. Cosmas
Shi Enxiang, 90, of which 51 in
prison, - and 6 other priests.
The
self-immolations in Tibet,
the crackdown against Protestant house churches, the illegitimate ordinations
of Catholic bishops and the harassment of priests, the military presence in
Muslim Xinjiang have all grown to impressive levels. The
government fears the religious freedom that allows people to escape from the
regime's indoctrination, and has always tried to limit with every available means.
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22/06/2011
