Guangcheng's story

Last year, Guangcheng made several accusations against the local health workers in Linyi. He alleged that they were coercing women to have late term abortions or sterilisation. This is in order to keep in line with the (IMHO ridiculous and a violation of human rights) one-child policy in China.

This year, Time Magazine named him as one of the 100 most inlfuential people in the world for exposing the problem.

It did not come without a price.

Guangcheng was detained in September 2005. He was subsequently charged for "damaging property and organising a mob to disturb traffic".

His trial, which was schedued last week brought concern to many who feared for him. Their fears were not unfounded.

Before the trial, Guangcheng's lawyers were arrested.

Guangcheng was subsequently represented by 2 state-appointed lawyers - against his will, of course.

The proceedings were held behind closed doors.

The trial took only 2 hours!

Guangcheng has been found guilty sentenced to 4 years and 3 months in prison.

Source: BBC News Online