On Sept. 16, Liu Chunli, wife of Pastor Jin Mingri, published an open letter to Justice Minister He Rong. She alleged that judicial bureaus were summoning defense lawyers in the Zion Church case and pressuring them to withdraw. The newest claim is attributed to Liu and remains subject to further independent corroboration.
Right to counsel and due process
The case raises questions about religious freedom, the right to counsel, lawyer independence and due process. Previous pressure and sanctions affecting lawyers connected to the case have been reported by independent media and institutions.