The Hong Kong Journalist Association has initiated a worldwide signature campaign calling on the Central Government to grant an early release for Ching Cheong under medical parole for humanitarian reason. We also urge the Hong Kong government to assist Ching and his family to the greatest possible extent. We have received 1812 signatures on 16 Dec 2006 (today) from our journalists and the Hong Kong citizens. It reflects that the Hong Kong citizens are deeply concern about the well-being of Ching Cheong.

 

Meanwhile, we will continue collect signatures via chingcheong@hkja.org.hk. The deadline is before 5pm on 21 December. We will send the signatures to the HKSAR government calling on an early release of Ching Cheong to enable him to reunite with his family as soon as possible.

 

Chief China correspondent for the Singapore’s Straits Times Ching Cheong was taken by the Chinese Authority on 22 April 2005 in Guangzhou. Citing “assisting investigation” as the reason, they later moved him to Beijing and detained him in the form of “residence under surveillance”. On 30 August 2006, the Beijing No 2 Intermediate People’s Court formally arrested Ching Cheong on a charge of espoinage and sentenced him to five years in prison. Ching Cheong filed an appeal against the verdict. On 24 November, Ching Cheong’s appeal was rejected by the Beijing Higher People's Court.

 

For enquiry, please contact the HKJA Office at 2591-0692.

 

Serenade Woo

Chairperson of The HKJA