We are shocked and saddened to learn that China’s only Nobel Peace laureate Liu Xiaobo has recently been diagnosed with advanced liver cancer. We are relieved that he has been released from prison for medical treatment.
However, we are seriously concerned that the Chinese regime will continue to deny Liu Xiaobo freedom, restrict his movement, and prevent him from receiving adequate medical care. The transfer from prison to hospital does not guarantee that his friends or family will be able to visit. We therefore strongly urge the Chinese authorities to let Liu Xiaobo free, ensure he received effective access to his family, allow him to choose where and how he wants to be treated. If Liu Xiaobo and his family choose to seek medical treatment overseas, IFC/CP will provide full assistance.
We believe that the Chinese Communist regime is responsible for Liu Xiaobo’s worsening health. Liu Xiaobo should never have been in prison in the first place, because his peaceful expression is not a crime. As early as 2010, Liu Xiaobo was suspected of suffering from hepatitis B, but the Chinese authorities never allowed him proper diagnosis and treatment. The denial of medical care lead to Liu Xiaobo’s advanced liver cancer. We will hold the Chinese regime and those individuals who mistreated Liu Xiaobo accountable.
Liu Xiaobo has been held incommunicado since 2008, and the world has almost forgotten him. We now call on the international community to help Liu Xiaobo gain his freedom and provide humanitarian support to him.
True love will produce a miracle, so let us pray for Liu Xiaobo for his victory over cancer, over all evils.