WASHINGTON — When peaceful criticism is treated as criminal evidence, the law is being used to silence conscience rather than protect justice. Free China Movement calls on the appellate authorities handling citizen journalist Yin Jiangen’s case to overturn his conviction and secure his immediate and unconditional release.
Yin was sentenced on August 6, 2026 to two years and three months in prison for “picking quarrels and provoking trouble.” At his September 10 appeal hearing, defense lawyer Zhang Tingyuan argued for acquittal. No appellate judgment was announced, and the presiding judge described the matter as a major and complex case.
Free China Movement believes peaceful reporting, criticism of government officials and discussion of public grievances are protected exercises of conscience and expression. They should never be converted into criminal liability merely because authorities find the speech uncomfortable or politically inconvenient.
“A government that can answer criticism does not need to imprison the critic,” Free China Movement said. “The appeal court now has an opportunity to correct an injustice: overturn the conviction and release Yin Jiangen.”
FCM calls for
Free China Movement urges the authorities to overturn Yin Jiangen’s conviction; release him immediately and unconditionally; end the use of vague public-order offenses against peaceful journalists, writers and civic advocates; ensure genuinely public and transparent proceedings; and protect lawyers, observers and family members from retaliation connected with the case.
A question of values
The case reflects a principle broader than one defendant. Free China Movement’s values essay, Peacefully Seeking Democracy Is Not Subversion. Remembering June Fourth Is Not a Crime., states the core standard: peaceful political belief, historical memory and democratic advocacy must not be treated as criminal acts.
Recent related coverage includes the cases of Du Bin and Jing Shuren, part of a broader record documenting the cost of peaceful expression under the mainland Chinese Communist government.
Media contact: contact@freechina.live
Website: FreeChina.live