Eritrean Christian Bahta was detained in military jail and abused because of his Christian faith
‘Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and
falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice
and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the
same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.’
Matthew 5:11-12 (NIV)
Release International
PO Box 54
ORPINGTON
BR5 9RT
Tel: 01689 823491
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.releaseinternational.org
Registered Charity 280577. The ministry of Christian Mission to the Communist World is a company
limited by guarantee in England, No 1506576. Registered office: Times House, Throwley Way, Sutton,
SM1 4JQ
Copyright © 2014 Release International
Release Advocates’ Pack 1.1
1. Contents
1. Contents ............................................................................. 1.1
2. Protecting prisoners and their families ............................... 2.1
3. Keeping you updated ......................................................... 3.1
4. Introduction ........................................................................ 4.1
5. Why letters have an impact ................................................ 5.1
6. Writing to prisoners ............................................................ 6.1
7. Writing to officials ............................................................... 7.1
7.1. General information ........................................................ 7.1.1
7.2. How to begin and end letters .......................................... 7.2.1
7.3. Writing to your MP and MEP .......................................... 7.3.1
7.4. Writing to embassies, governments and the UN ............ 7.4.1
7.5. Addresses for officials ..................................................... 7.5.1
8. China .................................................................................. 8.1
9. Cuba .................................................................................. 9.1
10. Egypt................................................................................ 10.1
11. Eritrea .............................................................................. 11.1
12. Iran................................................................................... 12.1
13. Kazakhstan ...................................................................... 13.1
14. Laos ................................................................................. 14.1
15. Pakistan ........................................................................... 15.1
16. Uzbekistan ....................................................................... 16.1
17. Vietnam............................................................................ 17.1
Release Advocates’ Pack 1.1
December 2009
2. Protecting prisoners and their
families
For the protection of
prisoners and their
families, please follow
the instructions in this
resource carefully.
Writers under the age
of 16 should check
their letters with a
Christian parent or
church leader.
Sources
Special thanks to Voice of the Martyrs Canada for their help in
compiling this edition. Also, to our other sources: ChinaAid, Chinese
Church Support Ministries, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, ReleaseEritrea, Voice of the Martyrs Australia, Voice of the Martyrs USA.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the
information presented here, Release cannot guarantee its infallibility.
The actual number of Christians in prison is usually higher than we
can list. News of arrests and releases can take weeks, if not months,
to reach the West and must be verified. There are many prisoners
whose names we do not know but of whom we hear about indirectly
or in general reports. Remember to pray for them too.
Release Advocates’ Pack 2.1
December 2009
3. Keeping you updated
This resource is for use by Release International supporters only.
Prisoners could be put at risk if you use out-of-date
information. This pack is revised regularly - but it may be
necessary to issue updates or urgent amendments in the
meantime. It is therefore essential that we have an up-to-date
record of all users’ details.
If you are not already on our mailing list, please complete and
return this form immediately to Release International, PO Box 54,
ORPINGTON, BR5 9RT, UK.
Please add me to your mailing list:
Title: Mr/Mrs/Ms/Rev/Other
Surname
Christian Names
Address
Postcode
Tel
Email
DOB if under 18
Release Advocates’ Pack 3.1
October 2009
4. Introduction
Right now many Christians are in prison, suffering because
they love and follow Jesus Christ in countries where it can
be dangerous to do so. They may have been locked up for
taking part in outdoor evangelism – or simply for owning a
Bible. These men and women who are enduring great
hardship, even torture, are part of our church family.
This Advocates’ Pack gives you all you need to write letters of
encouragement to prisoners and their families all over the world.
It also provides you with the essential tools for advocacy on their
behalf: contact details for the relevant authorities in the UK and
abroad, guidelines on letter writing, and a brief profile of the
countries where Christians are persecuted.
You are about to embark on a vital ministry. You will be standing
beside those who are suffering in Christ’s name so they know
they are not forgotten. You will be speaking out for those whose
rights are being trampled. And you will be obeying the Bible’s
command to ‘remember those in prison as if you were their
fellow-prisoners, and those who are ill-treated as if you
yourselves were suffering’ (Hebrews 13:3).
Political lobbying and letters of encouragement will be much
more powerful and effective if they are backed up with prayer.
Remember: as you intercede in prayer for Christians in prison,
you are sharing God’s heart and His burden for those who suffer
because they love Him.
Prisoners will probably not be able to reply, but don’t be
discouraged. Your letters are a precious gift, so keep
writing.
Release Advocates’ Pack 4.1
October 2009
5. Why letters have an impact
Your letters can make a world of difference to Christians in
prison for several reasons:
•
Letters are a clear sign to the authorities that we are aware of
the plight of a particular Christian — and we care! It disproves
the notion that the West is apathetic.
•
Letters testify to the love and unity among followers of Jesus
Christ throughout the world – and may be a strong witness to
those who perhaps open letters to censor them.
•
Letters prove to our persecuted family that they are not
forgotten. Lonely isolated prisoners are often tormented by
guards who tell them that no-one knows about their suffering,
and their faith comes under great pressure. Receiving a letter
from someone thousands of miles away helps keep their faith
strong.
•
Letters can result in better treatment for a prisoner – or even
their release. Authorities can be very sensitive about their
image abroad. When they realise that people in other
countries are monitoring a prisoner’s situation, they may be
shamed into taking action.
‘I want to thank all those who wrote to me. They really
brought light into my life.’ Rev Rinaldy Damanik,
Indonesian peace campaigner detained 2002-2004.
‘A prosecutor in Uzbekistan said he will not prevent
an unregistered Baptist church and its pastor from
meeting, because of the flood of protest letters
he has received from around the world.’
(Voice of the Martyrs, Canada)
Release Advocates’ Pack 5.1
March 2011
6. Writing to prisoners
For the safety of prisoners and those campaigning for their
release, it is vital you follow these instructions carefully.
Please, NEVER mention the name of your source of
information or the name of Release International or other
human rights organisations in your letters to prisoners or
officials. It could put the work of those organisations at risk,
and adversely affect the people we are trying to help.
May I write in English?
•
Yes, write in English, but write clearly: your note must be
legible if it needs to be translated.
•
Many people study English, so there will often be someone to
translate your letter.
What do I write?
•
Send letters, notes, postcards, even bookmarks.
•
Attractive Christian greeting cards are especially cherished.
Express your Christian love and say you are praying. If you
include a Bible verse, quote it and give the reference.
•
Do not write about politics or criticise governments or
other authorities.
How do I send it?
•
Address the envelope by hand (as printed labels can look too
official and draw attention to themselves); mark it ‘Airmail’,
and check the correct postage.
•
Post your letter direct to the prisoner, not to Release.
Release Advocates’ Pack 6.1
October 2010
NOTE: We recommend that you give only your name and
country, but not your full address.
Be aware also that unscrupulous individuals, claiming to be
the prisoner, occasionally steal letters and solicit funds. We
recommend that you never send money to anyone who
responds to your letter. Contact us for more information.
Adding a Bible verse in the prisoner’s own language
It is often appropriate to add a short Bible verse to your letter,
provided it could not be interpreted as being too political in
tone. You may like to have the verse translated into the
prisoner’s native tongue. The website www.biblegateway.com
may enable you to do so, if you have access to the internet
and you are writing your letter on a computer. On the Bible
gateway website, type in the Bible verse you want translated
then select the relevant Bible translation. Then simply cut and
paste the foreign text into your letter document.
Release Advocates’ Pack 6.2
October 2009
7. Writing to officials
7.1. General information
What do I say?
•
Be brief. Keep your letter short and to the point.
•
Be polite. You are representing Jesus Christ and His church.
Don’t be aggressive or offensive. Take account of cultural
differences.
•
Be factual. Identify yourself, and state either a general or
specific concern for persecuted Christians. If writing about
specific prisoners, give the names of the prisoners on whose
behalf you’re writing and any known details eg: date of arrest,
reason for detention, location, their home town, etc.
•
Be diplomatic. Don’t offer political or religious opinions and
don’t criticise the government. Say that you are concerned to
see human rights upheld in keeping with the basic principles
of religious freedom, as recognised by the international
community. (See UN Declaration of Human Rights opposite.)
•
Be specific. Advise officials politely about what you would
like to see done, eg: for the prisoner to be released, given
medical treatment, etc.
•
Be positive. Assume officials are open to reason and
discussion. Acknowledge and welcome past developments to
protect human rights. Thank them in advance for their
positive actions. When you learn of positive changes in a
prisoner’s situation, write and thank the official you’ve been
writing to.
Who do I write to?
•
Explanations of whom you should write to on specific issues
are given in section 4c (Writing to your MP and MEP) and
section 4d (which gives details of writing to government
leaders, foreign embassies in the UK, and missions to the
United Nations in Geneva and New York).
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.1.1
October 2009
How do I send my letter?
•
By post. Probably the most effective way to make your voice
heard. Be sure to check with the Post Office for postal rates
(visit www.royalmail.com or ring 08457 740 740).
•
By fax. Note that fax lines do get jammed and the authorities
may unplug their machines if inundated. But it is worth trying.
•
By email. Include your postal address and country of origin
so officials can see where the email has come from, as it
adds weight to the authenticity of your request. But
remember: emails are easy to delete and ignore.
The United Nations Declaration of Human Rights Article 18
is a universal principle applicable to all states, though not
necessarily one to which all nations are signatories:
‘Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and
religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or
belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others
and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in
teaching, practice, worship and observance.’
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.1.2
Dec 2013
7.2.
How to begin and end letters
There are no absolute rules on how to address officials. The following
list is a useful guide, although practices can vary from country to
country. Please remember at all times to be respectful and mindful of
the person’s seniority.
Addressee
Greeting
Sign-off
Kings, Queens and other
monarchs
Your Majesty
Yours respectfully
Presidents, Governors,
Generals and Colonels
(heads of State)
Your Excellency
Yours respectfully
Prime Ministers
Dear Prime Minister
Yours respectfully
Other government
ministers within Europe
Dear Sir
Yours faithfully
Other government
ministers outside Europe
Your Excellency
Yours respectfully
MPs/MEPs in the UK/EU
Dear Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms
surname
Your Excellency
Yours sincerely
Representatives to the
United Nations
Your Excellency
Yours respectfully
Directors of prisons,
camps, police chiefs and
local officials including
military personnel
Dear Sir/Admiral/
General/Colonel/
Captain
Yours faithfully
Judges
Your Honour
Yours faithfully
Archbishops
Dear Archbishop
Yours sincerely
Cardinals
Your Eminence
Yours faithfully
Bishops
Dear Bishop first
name
Dear Rev/Father first
name
Yours sincerely
Ambassadors and High
Commissioners
Vicars/Priests
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.2.1
Yours respectfully
Yours sincerely
October 2009
7.3.
Writing to your MP and MEP
You can write to your MP or your MEP (Member of the European
Parliament) asking for their help on issues that concern you.
Identify yourself as a constituent, but don’t say your vote
depends on their response: their job is simply to represent your
concerns.
You can ask for your MP/MEP to contact the minister responsible
at the Foreign and Commonwealth office (FCO) with your
concerns. Ask your MP/MEP for a copy of the response, as the
FCO is obliged to respond to all letters from MPs and MEPs.
If the minister’s response is not satisfactory, you can ask your
MP to try to put a Parliamentary Question, which will give your
concerns some publicity. Or your MP might propose an Early
Day Motion by which he or she places on record an opinion on a
particular issue and can gather signatures of support for it.
MEPs have the right to put oral and written questions to the
European Commission and the Council of Ministers – which is a
way for individuals to highlight important issues.
How to contact your MP:
•
You can write to your MP at:
The House of Commons
Westminster
LONDON
SW1A 0AA
Or email via: www.writetothem.com
•
You can find out the details of your MP by telephone on:
020 7219 4272
•
On the internet. The website address is:
www.parliament.uk
•
Details of your MP are often published in local newspapers.
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.3.1
October 2009
How to contact your MEP:
•
You can write to your MEP at:
European Parliament
Rue Wiertz
B-1047 Brussels
Belgium
You can email via: www.writetothem.com
•
You can find out the details of your MEP by telephone on:
020 7227 4300
•
On the internet. The website address is:
www.europarl.org.uk
•
Details of your MEP are often published in local newspapers.
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.3.2
Dec 2013
7.4. Writing to embassies,
governments and the UN
For the sake of prisoners and those campaigning for their
release, it is vital you follow these instructions carefully.
Please, NEVER mention the name of your source of
information or the name of Release or other human rights
organisations in your letters to prisoners or governments. It
could put the work of those organisations at risk, and
adversely affect the people we are trying to help.
Letters to officials – whether ambassadors to the UK or national
presidents – can make a real impact. When officials realise that
we know of situations within their country, especially if the letter
mentions specific incidents, they can become very
uncomfortable. They may well take measures to avoid coming
under scrutiny again.
Ambassadors to the UK are representatives of foreign
governments on British soil and so an important link with political
regimes thousands of miles away. In turn, foreign missions to the
United Nations can be challenged about where their nation
stands in upholding the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human
Rights which includes the right to religious freedom (Article 18).
Remember: be brief, polite, diplomatic and positive. If you
need further help with your letter, please contact us.
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.4.1
October 2009
Sample letters to government officials
Dear Sir,
Last year (name) was arrested for (reason arrested). The story of
his/her case has been circulated around the world and thousands
of Christians are concerned about it.
We ask that he/she be cleared of all charges and released. We
are praying for you as a key representative of your country.
Yours faithfully,
Dear Sir,
We are thankful that the laws and constitution in (country) allow
freedom of religion. However, we have heard that a man/woman
named (name) was put in prison at (place) for practising his/her
religion.
We are concerned for his/her welfare and would respectfully
request his/her release. We would like to ask you to please give
your attention to this matter. Thank you very much.
Yours faithfully,
Your Excellency,
I respectfully request your attention in the case of (name).
He/she was arrested in (place) for sharing his/her Christian faith
and on (date) was sentenced to (sentence given). He/she is
detained at (name of prison).
I am confident that your government’s international reputation will
be enhanced by being seen to adhere to Article 18 of the UN
Declaration of Human Rights, which clearly states everyone’s
right to freely choose and practise their faith.
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.4.2
October 2009
I appeal to you for the release of (name) to enable him/her to
continue his/her peaceful duties as a respectful citizen of your
country.
Meanwhile I ask that you use your good office to ensure that
(name) is able to see his/her family. I write in confidence of your
careful attention.
Yours respectfully,
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.4.3
Dec 2013
7.5.
Addresses for officials
United Nations addresses
CHINA
His Excellency Mr Wu Haitao
Deputy Permanent Representative
Chemin de Surville 11
1213 Petit-Lancy 2, Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 879 56 78 or 00 41 22 792 25 48
Fax: 00 41 22 793 70 14
Email: [email protected] or
[email protected]
CUBA
Her Excellency Mrs Anayansi Rodriguez Camelo
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Permanent Secretary of Cuba to the UN
Chemin de Valérie 100
Chambésy
1292 Geneva
Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 758 9430
Fax: 00 41 22 758 9431
Email: [email protected]
EGYPT
Her Excellency Ms Wafaa Bassim
Permanent Secretary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the UN
Avenue Blanc 49 (2nd Floor)
1202 Geneva
Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 731 65 30
Fax: 00 41 22 738 44 15
Email: [email protected]
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.1
Dec 2013
ERITREA
His Excellency Mr Bereket Woldeyohannes
First Secretary
Rue de Vermont 9
1202 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 740 49 40
Fax: 00 41 22 740 49 49
Email: [email protected]
IRAN
His Excellency Mr Mohsen Naziri Asl
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Permanent Secretary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the UN
Chemin du Petit-Saconnex 28
1209 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 332 21 00
Fax: 00 41 22 733 02 03
Email: [email protected]
LAOS
His Excellency Mr Saleumxay Komma Sith
Ambassador and Permanent Secretary of the Lao People’s
Democratic Republic to the UN
Route de Colovrex 14bis
1218 Grand-Saconnex, Switzerland
Tel: 00 1 212 832 2734
Fax: 00 1 212 750 0039
Email: [email protected]
PAKISTAN
His Excellency Mr Zamir Akram
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Permanent Secretary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
to the UN
Rue de Moillebeau 56
1211 Geneva 19, Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 749 19 30
Fax: 00 41 22 734 80 85
Email: [email protected]
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.2
Dec 2013
UZBEKISTAN
His Excellency Mr Javohir Murmetov
Second Secretary, Chargé d'affaires
International Centre Cointrin (ICC), Bloc D (7th Floor),
Route de Pré-Bois 20
1215 Geneva 15
Tel: 00 41 22 799 43 00
Fax: 00 41 22 799 43 02
Email: [email protected]
VIETNAM
His Excellency Mr Nguyen Trung Thanh
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
Permanent Secretary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
to the UN
Chemin des Corbillettes 30
1218 Grand-Saconnex, Switzerland
Tel: 00 41 22 798 24 85
Fax: 00 41 22 798 07 24
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.3
Dec 2013
Government addresses
CHINA
His Excellency Xi Jinping
President of the People's Republic of China
The State Council General Office
9 Xihuang-Chenggen Beijie, Beijing 100017
People's Republic of China
CUBA
His Excellency Raul Castro Ruz
President of the Republic of Cuba
Office of the President
Havana
Cuba
EGYPT
His Excellency Adly Mansoor
Presidential Palace
Abdeen
Cairo
Egypt
ERITREA
His Excellency Isaias Afewerki, President of the State of Eritrea
Office of the President
PO Box 257
Asmara
Eritrea
IRAN
His Excellency Hassan Rouhani
The Presidency,
Palestine Avenue, Azerbaijan Intersection
Tehran
Islamic Republic of Iran
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.4
Dec 2013
LAOS
His Excellency Choummaly Sayasone
Lane Xang Avenue
Vientiane
Lao P.D.R.
PAKISTAN
His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari
Office of the President
Constitution Avenue
Islamabad
Pakistan
UZBEKISTAN
His Excellency Islom Karimov, Prezidentu Respubliki Uzbekistan
700163 g. Tashkent
ul. Uzbekistankaya, 43
Rezidentsia prezidenta
Uzbekistan
VIETNAM
His Excellency Truong Tan Sang
Bureau de President
Hoang Hoa Tham
Hanoi, Vietnam
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.5
Dec 2013
Embassy addresses
CHINA
His Excellency Mr Liu Xiaoming
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
49-51 Portland Place, London W1B 1JL
Tel: 020 7299 4049
Fax: 020 7636 2981
CUBA
Her Excellency Mrs Irelia López Díaz
Embassy of the Republic of Cuba
167 High Holborn
London WC1V 6PA.
Tel: 020 7240 2488
Fax: 020 7836 2602
EGYPT
His Excellency Dr Hesham Khalil
Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt
2 Lowndes Street, London SW1X 9ET
Tel: 020 7235 9777
Fax: 020 7235 5684
ERITREA
His Excellency Mr Tesfamicael Gerahtu Ogbaghiorghis
Embassy of Eritrea
96 White Lion Street, London N1 9OF
Tel: 020 7713 0096
Fax: 020 7713 0161
IRAN
Mohammad Hassan Habibollah, Charge d’Affaires
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran
16 Prince’s Gate, London SW7 1PT
Tel: 020 7225 3000
Fax: 020 7589 4440
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.6
Dec 2013
KAZAKHSTAN
His Excellency Mr Kairat Abusseitov
The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan
125 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EA
Tel: 020 7925 1757
Fax: 020 7930 8990
LAOS
His Excellency Mr Khouanta Phalivong
Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic
74 Avenue Raymond-Poincaré
75 116 Paris
Tel: 00 33 1 45 53 02 98
Fax: 00 33 1 47 27 57 89
PAKISTAN
His Excellency Mr Wajid Shamsul Hasan
High Commission for The Islamic Republic of Pakistan
35–36 Lowndes Square, London SW1X 9JN
Tel: 020 7664 9200
Fax: 020 7664 9224
UZBEKISTAN
His Excellency Mr Otabek Akbarov
Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan
41 Holland Park
London W11 3RP
Tel: 020 7229 7679
Fax: 020 7229 7029
VIETNAM
His Excellency Mr Vu Quang Minh
The Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5RD
Tel: 020 7937 1912
Fax: 020 7565 3853 or 020 7937 6108
Release Advocates’ Pack 7.5.7
Dec 2013
8. China
Population: 1.3 billion
Government type: Communist state
Capital: Beijing
Religion: Officially atheist. Non-religious 40%;
Chinese Universalists 30%; Christian 8.5%;
Buddhist 8.5%; Atheist 8%; Other 5%
Although the constitution provides for religious freedom, China's
Government has consistently tried to control religious practice.
All religious groups are required to register. Those who refuse
are regarded as 'illegal' and sometimes forced underground.
State-sanctioned churches are closely monitored. 'Illegal' groups
are frequently branded 'evil cults', which makes it easier to
prosecute them; their leaders particularly risk torture or
imprisonment.
In an attempt to silence its international critics, China has in
recent years passed laws purporting to underline its commitment
to religious freedom. However, such laws are contradicted by
secret official documents leaked to the international media.
YOU CAN WRITE TO THE FOLLOWING PRISONERS:
AIQING ZHU
At 40 years of age, Aiqing Zhu was arrested for ‘illegal
evangelistic activities’ in June 1996. She was sentenced to 20
years’ imprisonment.
Prison address:
Aiqing Zhu
The Public Security Department
Xiang Xiang City
Hu Nan Province 411400
People’s Republic of China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.1
April 2013
Dec
2012
WANG ZHAOMIN
Zhaomin has been imprisoned since June 1999.
Prison address:
Wang Zhaomin
Team #2, Qishan Lao Gai Camp
Datong District
Huainan City
Anhui Province 232000
People’s Republic of China
XU FUMING
A leader of the South China Church, sentenced to life
imprisonment.
Prison address:
Xu Fuming
Jingzhou Prison
Jingzhou City, Hubei Province 434020
People’s Republic of China
XIAO YANLI and DENG XIAOLIN
Ms Xiao Yanli was arrested in October 2002 and given a ten-year
sentence. Ms Deng Xiaolin is in the same jail.
Prison address:
[Prisoner’s name]
No. 2 Division, Section 2
Wuhan Female Prison
Wuhan City
Hubei Province 430032
People’s Republic of China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.2
Dec 2013
GONG BANGKUN
Mr Gong Bangkun was arrested in 2002 and sentenced to 15
years in prison.
Prison address:
Gong Bangkun
No. 3 Division, Section 6
Jiangling District
Jingzhou City, Hubei Province 434110
People’s Republic of China
PASTOR YI CHUANFU
Sentenced to ten years in prison in 2002. He has been severely
beaten.
Prison address:
Yi Chuanfu
No. 2 Division, Section 6
Jiangling District
Jingzhou City, Hubei Province 434110
People’s Republic of China
PASTOR DONG DAOLAI
Arrested with other South China Church leaders in 2002 and
sentenced to ten years in prison.
Prison address:
Dong Daolai
No. 1 Division, Section 6
Jiangling District
Jingzhou City, Hubei Province 434110
People’s Republic of China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.3
Dec 2013
PENG MING
Peng Ming is an official UNHCR refugee from China who was
resident in the US from 2001. As a Christian he has worked for
Chinese democracy, freedom and human rights for many years.
In May 2004, while travelling to visit his elderly parents in
Thailand, Peng Ming, 52, was lured to Myanmar, abducted and
taken to China where he was sentenced to life in prison in
October 2005, charged with engaging in terrorism activities.
Imprisoned in Han Yang prison, he suffers from serious medical
conditions that have been ignored by prison officials.
Prison address:
Peng Ming
Xianning Prison
Xian’an District
Xianning City
Hubei Province
People’s Republic of China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.4
April 2013
May
2012
ALIMUJIANG YIMITI
Alimujiang Yimiti, a house
church leader, was arrested in
January 2008 because of his
Christian witness. He remained
incarcerated with no verdict for
almost two years. In 2009, he
was convicted on the fabricated
charge of ‘illegally providing
state secrets to overseas
organisations’ and given a
sentence of 15 years’ prison.
Alimujiang’s wife Gulinuer and
their two sons
On January 10 2010, Alimujiang’s defence lawyer filed an appeal
to the regional and national courts, calling for a re-evaluation of
the case. In February 2011, the court notified Alimujiang that
they upheld the original sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.
Alimujiang converted to Christianity from Islam in 1995 and has
been an active leader in the growing Uyghur church
Prison address:
Alimujiang Yimiti Section 11, The Xinjiang No. 3 Prison No. 1339,
Dongzhan Road, Urumqi City, Xinjiang Uyghur People's Republic
of China 830013
Yang Rongli
As the head pastor of the Linfen Church
Network in Shanxi, Yang Rongli is wellknown in Shanxi. On November 25, 2009,
she received the harshest sentence of
seven years in prison with a fine of 30,000
Yuan.
Write to: c/o Yang Linli, Room 101, Fuyuan Central Building
Shuiche Xiang, Xiangyang Road, Linfen City, Shanxi Province
041099, People’s Republic of China.
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.5
May 2013
Yang Xuan
Yang Xuan led the construction of the
prominent Golden Lampstand Church
in Linfen City. Well-known for his
preaching and leadership, Yang
Xuan became a target for church
persecution. On November 25, 2009,
he was sentenced to 3½ years in
prison and fined 20,000 Yuan. His
wife, Yang Caizhen, was arrested at
the same time but was released in February 2011 due to poor
health.
Write to Yang: c/o Yang Linli, Room 101, Fuyuan Central
Building, Shuiche Xiang, Xiangyang Road, Linfen City, Shanxi
Province 041099, People’s Republic of China.
Zhang Huamei
A faithful leader in the Linfen Church, Zhang Huamei helped
organise special church activities, and worked in various
ministries of the church. On November 25, 2009, she was
sentenced to four years in prison. Her lawyer fears she has been
beaten for witnessing to fellow prisoners. She petitioned for an
early release in January 2013 but was denied.
Write to her: c/o Feng-Liu, 2nd House on last row, Zhong An
Ping Village, Tiantan Town, Fushan County, Linfen City, Shanxi
Province, People’s Republic of China.
We love you and your family. We are praying for you, your family, and your guards.
ᡃẔ䇙Ἀ␴Ἀ䘬ℐ⭞ˤㆹẔᷢἈ␴Ἀ䘬⭞Ṣ炻ẍ⍲䚳⬰Ἀ䘬䊙嬎䤟⏲ࠋ
I thank God for your love of Christ.
ᡃᷢἈ⮡➢䜋䘬䇙䋖ᶲデ】ࠋ
I pray you will feel the presence of Christ with you today.
ᡃẔ䤟⏲Ἀ⛐Ṳ⣑⯙傥デ⍿⇘ᷣ䘬⎴⛐ࠋ
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.6
May 2013
Cui Jiaxing
As one of the Linfen House church leaders Cui Jiaxing was
arrested on September 25, 2009, along with Pastors Yang
Rongli, Wang Xiaoguang, Yang Xuan, and Zhang Huamei. Cui
Jiaxing served the Linfen Church by managing church finances
and helping with the distribution of funds to members according
to need. On November 25, 2009, he was charged with unlawfully
occupying land and tax evasion, and was fined and sentenced to
five and a half years in prison.
Write a letter of encouragement to Cui Jiaxing, care of his son,
Cui Zhichao.
Address:
Cui Jiaxing
c/o Cui Zhichao
Room #301
No. 3 Building
Home of Cement Factory
Yimin Road
Yaodu District
Linfen City
Shanxi Province
People's Republic of China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.7
January
May
2013
2012
GAO ZHISHENG
Since 2005, human
rights lawyer Gao
Zhisheng has been
repeatedly arrested,
imprisoned and
severely tortured by
Chinese authorities. In
2006, he and a group of
prominent human rights
lawyers created the
Association of Human Rights Attorneys for Chinese Christians.
That same year, Gao was sentenced to five years of probation
for allegedly inciting 'subversion of the state.' After serving three
years in prison, Gao was supposedly released on probation, but
he disappeared for extended periods of time.
In 2007, he was arrested and spent more than 50 days behind
bars and was tortured.
On January 12, 2013, Gao's brother and his father-in-law were
allowed to visit him for 30 minutes during which they were
allowed only to talk about family matters. It was their first meeting
in 10 months. Gao’s wife and two children have left China and
now live in the USA.
You may send a card or letter of encouragement to Gao at the
following address:
Gao Zhisheng
PO Box 15, Criminal Law Implementation Section
Shaya County, Xinjiang, Uyghur Autonomous Region 842208,
People’s Republic of China.
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.8
Dec 2013
WENXI LI
Christian businessman Mr Wenxi Li was
sentenced on June 17, 2013, to two years
in prison by the court of Xiaodian district of
Taiyuan.
Mr Wenxi Li was convicted for his part in
helping to open a Christian bookstore in
Taiyuan. For more information and details
of how to write to the authorities on his
behalf, please request a copy of the Alert from our supporter
relations team on 01689 823491 or download our Prisoners of
Faith Alert August 2013, at
http://www.releaseinternational.org/prisoner-of-faith-alert-98august-2013/
You may send letters or cards of encouragement to:
Wenxi Li
2nd Detention Centre
Xiaodian District
Beige Town
Taiyuan City
Shanxi Province
China
Release Advocates’ Pack 8.9
April 2012
9. Cuba
Population: 11.4 million
Government type:
Communist state
Capital: Havana
Religion: Christian
46.9%; Spiritist 17.6%;
Non-religious / other 35.5%
Originally, Cuba was set up as an atheist state. In 1992 the
constitution was changed and the country became a ‘secular’
state that claims to uphold freedom of religion. The reality
however remains that religious belief and practice continue to be
tightly controlled in Cuba and the influence of religious groups is
perceived by state authorities as a threat. Although several
religious organisations have experienced some improvements in
their treatment in recent years, others have faced growing
opposition, threats, arrests and imprisonment. The Cuban
authorities continue to put pressure on believers through
intimidation and coercion.
Church registration and state approval are required to build or
renovate church buildings. Those organisations that do not
maintain close ties with the Government do not receive the
necessary approval. As a result house churches are common –
most of which are unregistered and therefore illegal. If a
complaint is made against a house church, fines, eviction,
confiscation, closure, destruction or even imprisonment could
follow.
Release Advocates’ Pack 9.1
Dec 2013
10. Egypt
Population: 85 million
Government type: transitional – currently under
military rule
Capital: Cairo
Religion: Muslim (mostly Sunni) 87%; Coptic
Christian estimated 9%; Other Christian 3%;
Other 1%
The Coptic church in Egypt is the largest Christian community in
the Middle East and an estimated 9 per cent of Egyptians are
Copts. But the country's constitution gives preference to Muslims
and the distinction between civil law and Sharia (strict Islamic
law) has gradually been eroded.
From 1981, Egyptian politics were dominated by President Hosni
Mubarak whose rule was considered repressive, and his security
forces brutal. A popular uprising in February 2011 forced
President Mubarak to step down and hand power to the military.
Parliamentary elections were held in November 2011, with
Islamic parties winning 73 per cent of the seats. The Muslim
Brotherhood's candidate, Mohammed Morsi, was later elected
president in 2012.
Christians expressed concern about the growing domination of
the Islamic parties. In July 2012 the constituent assembly passed
a new constitution increasing Islam's influence on the country.
In June 2013, President Morsi appointed more Islamists to
leading positions but mass demonstrations in July led to his
removal by the military. Islamists then carried out a wave of
attacks against Christian churches, homes, businesses and
institutions across the country. Many thousands of Christians
have fled the country.
Release Advocates’ Pack 10.1
Dec 2013
11. Eritrea
Population: 5 million
Government type: Transitional government in
what is currently a one-party state
Capital: Asmara
Religion: 49.2% Muslim; 47.3% Christian; 2.8%
non-religious; Other 0.7%
Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a 30year struggle but relations between the two countries remain
fragile. Drought and poverty have compounded Eritrea’s
instability. In 2002 the Eritrean government ordered the closure
of all churches not affiliated with the Catholic, Evangelical
Lutheran or Orthodox denominations and banned all other
religious practices apart from Islam. The number of Christians
held without charge is constantly changing but there have been
reports of well over 1,500 being detained, including several
pastors. Jail conditions are often harsh. Prisoners are frequently
denied family visits and ordered to recant their faith.
HAILE NAYZGI
Haile Nayzgi is the leader of Eritrea’s Full Gospel Church in
Asmara which comprises up to 150 house groups. These groups
were closed by government decree in May 2003 and issued with
forms for government registration. Though these forms were duly
completed, no response was ever given. A year later, in May
2004, Haile, a former accountant, was arrested; he has been
held in jail ever since. The charges against him have not been
made public. He has been denied contact with his wife and four
children. It is thought that he is being held in Karchele, the
dungeon-like prison in Asmara where many of Eritrea’s
prominent political prisoners are believed to be incarcerated.
Release Advocates’ Pack 11.1
March 2011
DR KIFLU GEBREMESKEL
Kiflu is chairman of the Eritrean Evangelical Alliance and full-time
pastor of the Southwest Full Gospel Church of Eritrea. He was
arrested in May 2004 and is believed also to be in Karchele jail.
KIDANE WELDOU
Pastor Kidane, a senior leader of the Full Gospel Church in
Asmara, was arrested in March 2005. He has not been charged.
Pastor Kidane also serves on the executive committee of
Gideons International in Eritrea. He is married, with four children.
MUSSIE EZAZ
Evangelist Mussie Ezaz had a growing
ministry with young people in the Kale
Hiwot Church before his arrest in
2007. He escaped from custody but
was rearrested as he tried to flee to
Ethiopia.
Rev Dr TEKLEAB MENGHISTEAB
Rev Dr Tekleab, a highly respected
physician and a leader of the Medhane
Alem Church, was arrested in November 2005. He is insulindependent and has been reported to be in poor health. He is
married with four children.
ADDRESS
It is believed that all five of the above Eritrean Christians are
being held in Karchele prison, Asmara:
Karchele Prison
2nd Police Station Zone 7 Northern East
Zoba Maakel
Asmara, Eritrea
Release Advocates’ Pack 11.2
November
Dec
2013 2009
12. Iran
Population: 70 million
Government type: Theocratic republic
Capital: Tehran
Religion: Muslim 98.6%; Christian 0.51%; Other
0.89%
Known as Persia until 1935, Iran
remained distinctive in the Middle East by retaining its own
language and following the Shi’ite interpretation of Islam.
Iran remains a theocratic police state where conversion from
Islam to another faith is a capital crime. Churches and their
members are under constant surveillance. Christians have
experienced increasing hostility from the authorities since 1990 –
as have other religious groups such as the Baha’is and Sunni
Muslims.
Evangelising Muslims is banned and the official penalty for
apostasy (conversion from Islam) is death, although the sentence
is rarely carried out.
BEHNAM IRANI
An Iranian pastor who has been jailed
because of his Christian faith needs urgent
medical treatment. Behnam Irani, aged 43,
who is imprisoned in the notorious Karaj
Ghezal Hesar prison, has been described as
‘a man who is slowly dying’.
His health is reported to be declining steadily
as a result of regular beatings at the hands of other prisoners
and guards. He is limping badly, is unable to see well and is
suffering from a bleeding ulcer, which has caused him to lose
consciousness. We understand that he has been denied medical
attention and his family fear he could die within months.
Behnam, who is married with two children, is serving a total of six
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.1
Dec 2013
years in prison having been convicted of crimes against national
security in January 2011. He is now housed in a normal cell but
the authorities have asked for him to be beaten regularly. His hair
has turned white, and there are fears he could lose the use of his
foot due to a severe foot injury.
Send a card of encouragement to Behnam Irani:
c/o Release International, PO Box 54, Orpington, BR5 9RT.
Or
Ghezel Hesar Prison
Karaj, Albourz State,
Iran
MARYAM JALILI
Iranian Christian Maryam Jalili
(Prisoners of Faith Alert
September 2012) was released
from Evin Prison on September
18, 2013, six weeks before her
two-and-a-half-year sentence
was due to be completed. She
was one of 11 prisoners of
conscience selected for
release.
Thank you to all of you who wrote letters on her behalf and or
sent cards of encouragement to her in prison.
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.2
May 2013
FARSHID FATHI
Farshid Fathi was arrested
on December 26, 2010. Of
the 22 believers arrested at
that time, ten were released
after intense questioning and
after they signed agreements
to refrain from Christian
activities. Eleven others were also later released.
By the end of April, 2011, only Farshid remained in prison. A
Christian convert from Islam, he was charged with ‘acting against
national security through membership of a Christian organisation,
collection of funds, propaganda against the Islamic Regime by
helping spread Christianity in the country,’ and sentenced to six
years of imprisonment on March 5, 2012. Though the charge is
for his Christian work, the authorities tried to cast his activities as
political offences.
Farshid’s appeal against the charges was rejected in June 2012.
He is due to serve the rest of his sentence in Evin Prison.
Write to Farshid at:
Farshid Fathi,
Evin Prison,
Saadat Abad,
Tehran,
Iran.
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.3
Dec 2013
SAEED ABEDINI
Saeed Abedini, an Iranian
Christian pastor who became an
American citizen in 2010, was
arrested in September 2012 for
his involvement in Iran’s house
church movement. He was put
on trial in Tehran on January 21,
2013, and was sentenced to
eight years in prison.
Please write to Pastor Abedini at:
Saeed Abedini, Rajai Shahr Prison, Moazzen Blvd, Karaj, Iran
ALIREZA SEYYEDIAN
Alireza Seyyedian is a 37-year-old former
Muslim who has been a Christian since 2006.
Last year, security officials confiscated his
computer during a raid on his apartment.
Authorities then discovered video of Alireza’s
baptism in Turkey on the computer. In December
2011 he was sentenced to six years in prison, for
crimes against national security and propaganda against the
regime. The judge stated that since Alireza was baptized in
Turkey, he was trying to express the lack of freedom in Iran and
was therefore was propagating against the regime. He was also
accused of holding regular meetings with former Muslims and
distributing Bibles among youth.
Write to Alireza at: Alireza Seyyedian, Evin Prison, Saadat Abad,
Tehran, Iran.
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.4
Dec 2013
VAHID HAKKANI
Iranian Christian Vahid Hakkani was sentenced to three years
and eights months’ imprisonment because of his Christian faith
and attendance at worship services. The sentence was upheld
by an appeals court, but the legal battle continues.
Vahid has been granted a leave of absence from prison to seek
medical treatment for internal bleeding and other problems he
has suffered that have been exacerbated by harsh treatment he
has received in prison. He has lost a significant amount of weight
and has had difficulty walking.
The medical leave has come with numerous conditions that have
put additional strain on Vahid, his family, and the Christian
community in Iran. To stay in hospital the family had to post
significant bail with the authorities.
We will monitor the situation regarding brother Vahid but at
present letters and cards of encouragement may still be sent to
him at the address below:
Vahid Hakkani Adel-Abad Prison
Shahrak-e-Shahid Motahhari
Shiraz
Iran
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.5
Dec 2013
MARYAM NAGASH-ZARGARAN
Maryam Naghash-Zargaran (also known as Nasim) was arrested
in late 2012 and is currently serving a four-year sentence in the
women's ward of Evin prison, Tehran.
Maryam, now 35 years old, was charged under article 610 of the
Islamic penal code with 'conducting propaganda against the
Islamic regime and acting against national security,' charges that
are routinely levelled against Iranian Christians in order to
criminalise any expression of their Christian faith.
In Maryam's case the court determined that she had converted
from Islam to evangelical Christianity, set up house churches,
evangelised Muslim women and youth and propagated
Christianity. She was found guilty and sentenced to four years'
imprisonment on March 9, 2013.
Since her incarceration she has experienced some serious
health concerns and on September 29 was transferred from Evin
prison to Modares hospital to be treated after an apparent heart
attack.
Although Maryam underwent cardiovascular surgery several
years ago and has a history of heart problems, the pressure she
has been placed under and the stressful conditions of
imprisonment have exacerbated her heart disease. Her
imprisonment is posing serious risks to her health.
You may send cards or letters of encouragement to Maryam at:
Maryam Nagash-Zargaran
Evin Prison
Saadat Abad
Tehran
Iran
Release Advocates’ Pack 12.6
Dec 2013
13. Kazakhstan
Population: 16.4 million
Government type: Republic but with an
authoritarian presidency
Capital: Astana
Religion: Muslim 70.2%; Orthodox
23.9%; Atheist 2.8% Christian 2.3%
A huge country the size of Western Europe, Kazakhstan has vast
mineral resources and enormous economic potential. The varied
landscape stretches from the mountainous, heavily populated
regions of the east to the sparsely populated, energy-rich
lowlands in the west, and from the industrialised north, with its
Siberian climate and terrain, through the arid, empty steppes of
the centre, to the fertile south.
Ethnically the country is as diverse, with the Kazakhs making up
over half the population, the Russians comprising just over a
quarter, and smaller minorities of Uzbeks, Koreans, Chechens
and others accounting for the rest. The main religion, Islam, was
suppressed like all others under Communist rule. Currently
traditional Islam is on the rise, despite the government actively
opposing radical Islam. Orthodox Christianity is perceived as the
religion of Russians, and evangelicals are often regarded as
dangerous sects.
Release Advocates’ Pack 13.1
Dec 2013
PASTOR KASHKUMBAEV
Pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbaev (66),
leads Grace Church in the city of Astana,
Kazakhstan. Many Kazakh Christians
believe the authorities in Kazakhstan are
specifically targeting Muslim-background
Christians. Although there are several
protestant denominations in Kazakhstan
that operate relatively undisturbed, some of which have even
been granted registration, 80 per cent of Pastor Kashkumbaev’s
congregation are Kazakh, many of whom have converted from
Islam. Pastor Kashkumbaev himself is Kazakh and a former
Muslim.
Following accusations that Pastor Kashkumbaev had laced
communion juice with hallucinogens which ‘harmed the health’ of
Lyazzat Almenova, a woman connected to his church, he was
arrested on May 17, 2013. However, in a Forum 18 report,
Almenova claims that she was falsely used as a witness to open
a case against the pastor. ‘He is totally innocent and has not
harmed my health at all,’ she stated.
Pastor Kashkumbaev had been transferred from prison in Astana
to Almaty's Republican Scientific/Practical Centre of Psychiatry
on August 5, where he remained until he was discharged on
September 2. In addition to the unfounded accusations, the
wrongful imprisonment, the denial of a fair trial and the likely
mental torture in a psychiatric ward, it seems that the
government is now hiding Kashkumbaev, who appears to have
simply disappeared.
International Christian Concern in the United States is
encouraging its supporters to write to the Kazakh ambassador to
the US. We encourage you to use its letter (below) as a template
and write to the Kazakh ambassador to the UK on behalf of
Pastor Kashkumbaev.
Release Advocates’ Pack 13.2
Dec 2013
SAMPLE LETTER
His Excellency Mr Kairat Abusseitov
The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan
125 Pall Mall
London SW1Y 5EA
Date
Dear Ambassador Abusseitov,
It is with great concern that I petition your government for the
immediate and unconditional release of Pastor Bakhytzhan
Kashkumbaev. Pastor Kashkumbaev was originally detained by
Kazakh authorities in Astana on May 17, and charged with
‘harming the health’ of a church member, Ms. Lyazzat Almenova.
These charges were almost immediately proven to be spurious
when Ms. Almenova herself denied that she has been harmed by
Pastor Kashkumbaev. Nevertheless both Pastor Kashkumbaev
and Ms. Almenova were forced to undergo psychological
treatment.
On July 18, Pastor Kashkumbaev wrote a letter to the United
Nations Human Rights Committee pleading for assistance and
warning, ‘It will not take much for authorities to make me a
vegetable... I am begging you to protect me.’
On August 5, Pastor Kashkumbaev was transferred to Almaty
and forcibly admitted to the Almaty Practical Centre for
Psychiatry. While there, the pastor was reportedly subjected to
an alarming 19 examinations during his one month stay, six
times the number of examinations given to a typical patient.
On October 8, Pastor Kashkumbaev, having been transferred
back to pre-trial detention in Astana, was released and told he
could serve the remainder of his pre-trial detention under house
arrest due to serious medical conditions. However, in what
appears a cruel twist, authorities re-arrested Pastor
Release Advocates’ Pack 13.3
Dec 2013
Kashkumbaev only a few minutes after he had walked out of
detention, leaving his wife and supporters to stand by helplessly
as the ailing 67-year-old pastor was once again taken into
custody. Pastor Kashkumbaev was subsequently charged with
the brand new accusation of ‘propagating terrorism or
extremism’, a charge that carries with it a potential prison
sentence of three to seven years.
Ambassador Abusseitov, I urge you in the strongest possible
terms to do everything in your power to immediately secure the
unconditional release of Pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbaev. His
arrest and rearrest by Kazakh authorities is a gross miscarriage
of justice and a sign to the international community that, far from
protecting religious minorities, Kazakhstan is in reality seeking to
control and repress the leaders of the Protestant Christian
community.
We ask you to consider the National Human Rights Action Plan,
agreed to by President Nazarbayev in 2009, which guarantees
the right of all Kazakh citizens to practise their faith without fear
of harassment. The release of Pastor Kashkumbaev will help to
reassure the United Kingdom and the world that Kazakhstan is
dedicated to upholding the fundamental human rights of its
citizens.
Yours sincerely
Release Advocates’ Pack 13.4
Dec 2013
14. Laos
Population: 6.5 million
Government type: Communist state
Capital: Vientiane
Religion: Ethnoreligionist* 49%; Buddhist 43%;
Christian 2.8%; Other 5.2%
* Ethnoreligionist: followers of local, tribal,
animistic or shamanistic religions, with members
restricted to one ethnic group.
In 1975 the communist Pathet Lao established a one-party state
under the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party. In 1998 the
government labelled Christians ‘state enemy number one’ and
introduced a policy known as ‘The Programme’ to eliminate
Christianity. Imprisonments, church closures and forced
displacements then increased.
Today, the government monitors churches closely and considers
them subversive. They have raided house churches, arrested
Laotian Christians and expelled foreign believers.
Recently, there have been some improvements: many Christian
prisoners held for their faith have been released and some
churches have been re-opened. But reports of religious
persecution in a number of provinces persist. Human rights
groups report a crackdown in rural areas, where the communist
authorities fear the growth of Christianity.
.
Release Advocates’ Pack 14.1
Dec 2013
15. Pakistan
Population: 193.2 million
Government type: Federal republic
Capital: Islamabad
Religion: Muslim 95.8%; Christian 2.4%;
Hindu 1.6%; Other 0.2%
Pakistan was founded as a Muslim
homeland in 1947 after the partition of former British India. Army
chief Pervez Musharraf came to power in October 1999 after
launching a bloodless coup – but resigned in 2008, amid
increasing activity by Islamist extremists. Pakistan has a culture
of violence and widespread corruption which leaves religious
minorities vulnerable. Islamist militants who want Sharia (Islamic)
law frequently target Christians with violence, particularly since
September 11, 2001. Pakistan’s loosely worded blasphemy laws
are often used to victimise religious minorities too, and
accusations of blasphemy have been levelled to settle scores.
Note: Many Pakistanis adopt the surname Masih (meaning Messiah) when they
become Christians. Unless explicitly stated, the Masihs listed below are not
directly related.
WRITE TO GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ON BEHALF OF THE
FOLLOWING PRISONER:
AUGUSTINE ASHIQ ‘KINGRI’ MASIH
Augustine Ashiq ‘Kingri’ Masih from Mahalla Saeedabad,
Faisalabad, was convicted in June 2002 of slandering the
prophet Mohammed. The law says he must be hanged for the
alleged offence: he remains on death row. He was also fined
50,000 rupees (£481). Masih was arrested in May 2000 after
being accused of making derogatory remarks against
Mohammed. He allegedly made the remarks while some Muslim
acquaintances were questioning him about changing his faith.
Two years earlier, Masih had reportedly converted to Islam to
marry a Muslim girl. But the wedding never took place and Masih
then officially changed his religion back to Christianity.
Release Advocates’ Pack 15.1
May 2013
Dec
2013
YOU CAN WRITE TO THE FOLLOWING PRISONERS:
ASIA BIBI
Asia Bibi, a 37-year-old Pakistani woman from
the village of Ittanwali, was arrested by police
on Friday, June 19, 2009. Asia (also called
Asia Noreen) is the wife of 50-year-old Ashiq
Masih, and their family is one of only three
Christian families in a village of 1,500 families.
Many of the local women, including Asia, work on the farm of
Muslim landowner Muhammad Idrees. During their work, many of
the Muslim women have pressured Asia to renounce Christianity
and accept Islam. In June 2009 the pressure became especially
strong.
On Friday, June 19, there was an intense discussion among the
women about their faith. The Muslim women told Asia about
Islam. Asia responded by telling them about her faith in Christ.
Asia told the Muslim women Christ had died on the cross for
sins, then asked them what Mohammad had done for them.
She told them Jesus is alive, but Mohammad is dead. ‘Our Christ
is the true prophet of God,’ she reportedly told them, ‘and yours
is not true.’
Seventeen months after Asia’s arrest, she was convicted of
violating subsection C of Pakistan’s 295 blasphemy law blasphemy against the prophet Mohammad - and was sentenced
to death. No Christian in Pakistan has ever been executed under
the blasphemy law, but in several cases, extremists have
murdered Christians after their release from prison.
Please continue to pray for Asia’s release.
Write to Asia at: Asia Bibi, Central Jail Multan, Multan City,
Punjab, Pakistan.
Release Advocates’ Pack 15.2
Dec 2013
16. Uzbekistan
Population: 28.2 million
Government type: Republic but with
authoritarian presidency
Capital: Tashkent
Religion: Muslim 76.4%; Non-religious 18%;
Atheist 3.5%; Christian 1.5%; Other 0.6%
Uzbekistan gained her independence after the fall of the Soviet
Union in 1991. The country was once famed for its cotton
production but today environmental degradation and rigid political
control conspire to trap a third of the population below the
poverty line. Uzbekistan has a poor human rights record. In fact,
the UN has described the use of torture in the nation as
‘systematic’. Religious communities are required to make
themselves known to the authorities but only approved groups
can be registered officially. Protestant churches with ethnic
Uzbek members are said to operate in a climate of fear and
harassment. Evangelism, missionary activity and religious
instruction are banned.
TOHAR HAYDAROV
http://www.releaseinternational.org/media/download_gallery/Pris
oners-of-Faith-Alert-October-2010.pdf
On 18 January, 2010, Uzbek police arrested
Tohar Haydarov and pressured him to renounce
his Christian faith. When he refused, it is
alleged they placed drugs in his pocket. The
police then searched his home where they
claim to have ‘found’ more drugs.
Release Advocates’ Pack 16.1
Dec 2013
Seven weeks after his arrest on drug charges, Tohar was
sentenced to ten years' imprisonment. Members of his Baptist
church insist the case was fabricated to punish him for his
religious affiliation and have stated that he is ‘a man with a pure
conscience and an honest Christian.’
An initial appeal against his sentence was rejected, despite
numerous violations of legal procedure in the original trial. The
Uzbek state authorities have long imposed harsh restrictions on
all religious activity. Unregistered religious activity is a criminal
offence, as are activities such as sharing one's beliefs,
unapproved religious publishing and religious meetings in private
homes
Currently he is serving his sentence at Qarshi labour camp some
400km from his home. He hopes to present an appeal to the
Supreme Court.
Send a card of encouragement to Tohar Haydarov: UYa 64/49,
Otryad 13, Pos. Shaikh-Ali, G. Karshi, Kashkadarya Region
180020, Uzbekistan.
Write a polite and respectful letter to:
His Excellency Mr Otabek Akbarov, Embassy of the Republic of
Uzbekistan, 41 Holland Park, London W11 3RP.
His Excellency Mr Vladimir Imamovich Morov, Minister of Foreign
Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan,
9, Uzbekistan Street, Tashkent, 100029.
Express deep concern at reports Tohar Haydarov has been
sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment on fabricated drugs
charges.
Express concern that Tohar Haydarov has, in reality, been
imprisoned for his peaceful religious activities. Ask for his
immediate and unconditional release.
Release Advocates’ Pack 16.2
March
Dec
2013
2011
17. Vietnam
Population: 88.1 million
Government type: Communist state
Capital: Hanoi
Religion: Buddhist 49%; Non-religious 12.7%;
Neoreligionist* 11%; Ethnoreligionist** 9.8%;
Christian 8.7%; Atheist 6.9%; Other 1.9%
* Neoreligionist: followers of Asian 20th-century
neoreligions, neoreligious movements, radical new crisis
religions and non-Christian syncretistic mass religions
** Ethnoreligionist: followers of local, tribal, animistic or
shamanistic religions, with members restricted to one
ethnic group
At the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 communist forces under
Ho Chi Minh took over the whole of Vietnam. Although the
Vietnam constitution guarantees freedom of religion, this freedom
is not supported by the Communist Party. In fact the government
has increased systematic repression of churches and believers,
especially among the Montagnard people and other tribal groups.
They have also been clamping down on the evangelical
Mennonite Church. Believers who are arrested are often badly
beaten. As a result one Mennonite church worker has been
crippled, and another young Sunday school teacher – a woman –
was beaten to the point of insanity.
PLEASE WRITE TO THE FOLLOWING PRISONERS:
NGUYEN VAN LY
On February 19, 2007, Nguyen Van Ly was
arrested in Hue, Vietnam for distributing
material ‘harmful to the state’. In March, he
was sentenced to eight years in prison. He
has issued statements criticising the
Government’s confiscation of church property,
lack of seminary training and the influence of the state in church
Release Advocates’ Pack 17.1
Dec 2013
teachings, and has been a powerful advocate for Christian
freedom.
On March 15, 2010, Nguyen was released on medical parole
after he suffered three debilitating strokes. He spent 16 months
convalescing before the Government demanded he
return to complete his sentence.
Seriously ill and weak, Nguyen was rearrested on July 25, 2011.
Write to Nguyen Van Ly:
Nam Ha Prison
Team 27
Ba Sao Village
Kim Bang District
Ha Nam Province
Vietnam
LO VAN HOA
Lo Van Hoa is being held in prison for illegally preaching the
Gospel. Please write a note to encourage him.
Contact information:
Lo Van Hoa
Trai Tu Yen Ha
Phu Yen
Tinh Son La, Hanoi
Vietnam
Release Advocates’ Pack 17.2
Dec 2013
WRITE TO GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ON BEHALF OF THE
FOLLOWING PRISONERS (see Addresses for officials):
KSO TI NO
Pastor Kso Ti No leads the Ia Grai congregation in Gia Lai
province in the Central Highlands. He also heads the Gia Lai
Conference, which includes 48 congregations of nearly 3,000
believers. He was arrested on 15 May 2004, and detained at T20
detention camp in Gia Lai. He is the son of the late Pastor Kso
Tik and followed his father into church leadership. He has a wife,
four children and a widowed mother. Families and church leaders
have tried many times to visit Kso Ti No in detention, but the
security police have refused to let anyone meet him.
KSO PUI NAIH
Evangelist Kso Pui Naih of Plei Breng III leads a Mennonite
church in La Grai district of Gia Lai province. He was arrested
and detained with Pastor Kso Ti No on 15 May 2004.
NORTHERN AND CENTRAL HIGHLANDS
RI sources report that hundreds of ethnic minority Christians from
Vietnam’s many hill tribes in the Northern and Central Highlands
are currently in jail for their faith. They include members of the
Jorai, Banah, Ede, Mnong and Montagnard tribes. The mainly
Christian Montagnard minority in the Central Highlands – the
largest tribal group in Vietnam – has endured particularly harsh
persecution. Hundreds of Montagnards have been driven to
neighbouring Cambodia and many more have fled into the
forests of Vietnam. Several hundred Montagnards are believed to
be imprisoned in the Central Highlands, most of them Christians:
they tend to be jailed on (largely false) political charges. There
have been reports of the authorities trying to force Christians to
give up their faith and participate in a ceremony called
‘Repenting of Following Christianity’. Please pray for these
people.
Release Advocates’ Pack 17.3
Dec 2013
Other information for advocates
Release produces a free monthly email, the
Prisoners of Faith alert, which gives details of an
individual Christian prisoner, with specific prayer
points, and letter-writing information.
You may subscribe to this free service by calling our
Supporter Relations Team on 01689 823491 or via
our website at www.releaseinternational.org/signup
Help Prisoners of Faith today
By giving £5 a month, you can make a real difference to
Christians imprisoned for their faith, and their families.
Your regular financial support helps
provide:
•
Pastoral visits to those in prison,
and to their families, so they know
they’ve not been forgotten
•
Practical help for families who’ve
been deprived of their breadwinner
– and to help pay the cost of prison
visits
•
Legal and other assistance
•
Bibles and Christian literature
To find out more, please call us on 01689 823491, or visit our
website www.releaseinternational.org/prisoners where you can
download a flier which includes a Standing Order form.
Release Advocates’ Pack 17.4