Date: September 11, 2017
MAC Press Release No. 63
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today that 177 days have passed since Mr. Li Ming-che's personal freedom was restricted by mainland China after he entered the Mainland from Macao on March 19. During this period, the Mainland has only issued two public statements through the Taiwan Affairs Office and has not yet provided details of the case. The Mainland has also refused to allow family visits. Mr. Li Ming-che pleaded guilty at a court trial that began today (September 11, 2017). However, outside parties cannot entirely recognize or accept the plea given the absence of due process protections under the law.
The prosecutor in the case charged Mr. Li Ming-che with "the crime of subversion of state power" under Article 105 of mainland China's Criminal Law. The MAC noted that Mr. Li Ming-che was concerned about civil society and democratic development in mainland China. He exchanged views with friends in mainland China through internet communities and other means to advocate and share his experience and ideas on democracy, freedom, and party politics. Actions in pursuit of the universal values of democracy, freedom, and the protection of human rights should be duly respected.
The MAC stressed that this case has attracted a high level of attention in the international community and Taiwan. It is also relevant to the global perception of human rights in mainland China, and furthermore affects the development of cross-Strait relations. The MAC called on the Mainland to respond properly to the collective expectations of all parties after today's trial and to handle affairs prudently and rationally in accordance with universal values and trends of human rights. The government will continue to do its utmost to assist family members and hopes that mainland China will allow Mr. Li Ming-che to safely return to Taiwan as soon as possible. This time, Family members and relevant personnel were able to smoothly visit the Mainland and two family members also met with Li Ming-che. We believe that these actions by the Mainland side will have positive impact on cross-Strait interaction.