Chen Guangcheng Makes Second Call to Congressional Hearing

Blind Chinese rights lawyer Chen Guangcheng has called through to a U.S. Congressional hearing for the second time this month. Chen, who remains in a Beijing hospital, testified on Tuesday about the suppression his family member have been under in his hometown in Shandong province.

[Chen Guangcheng, Blind Rights Lawyer]:
“The latest information is that my big brother is being kept at home and is not allowed to leave the village. There are state security officials guarding him.”

Chen also spoke about authorities stopping lawyers trying to defend his nephew. Chen Kegui has been charged with “intentional homicide” after injuring officials who broke into his home in April. Chen Guangcheng says these charges are trumped up.

[Chen Guangcheng, Blind Rights Lawyer]:
“Chen Kegui’s lawyer [Si Weijiang] went there and he had a letter signed by Chen’s wife retaining his services, but Yinan County public security bureau insisted the letter is fake, and stopped the lawyer from meeting Chen Kegui. They know the document is real, but are trying to force his wife to appear. They want to place her under control, so she cannot seek assistance from lawyers.”

Chen attracted worldwide attention after escaping from 19 months of house arrest in April. The blind activist is known for advocating for victims of the Chinese regime’s one-child policy. On Tuesday, Chen said he was not a hero, but just did what he had to.

[Chen Guangcheng, Blind Rights Lawyer]:
“I may not be able to achieve great things, but when evilness takes place around me, what I can do is to not stay silent, I have to make these things public.”

Chen said he has been in contact with U.S. Embassy officials every day, though he’s unsure whether they have made contact with Chen’s family and friends.

U.S. Congressman Chris Smith, who chaired Tuesday’s hearing, says U.S. State Department staff decline requests to attend the hearing.