Dr Yang Hengjun, an Australian writer imprisoned in China, has marked the sixth anniversary of his detention with a heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Yang, accused of espionage, received a suspended death sentence last year following nearly five years of incarceration. He has consistently denied the allegations, and the Australian government has actively campaigned for his release throughout this period.
In his poignant letter, Yang expressed deep gratitude towards Albanese for his ongoing support: “tears blur my vision” and “I can only use a silent voice to thank you.” He reflected on the struggles he has faced during this “hardest and darkest chapter” of his life, feeling buoyed by the solidarity shown to him. Yang articulated that Australia is defined not only by its natural beauty but also by its “strong faith, common values, and a far-reaching vision based on facts and virtue.”
Prime Minister Albanese responded to Yang’s letter, acknowledging its “profound courage and resilience,” and assured that efforts to advocate for Yang’s wellbeing and freedom are ongoing. Foreign Minister Penny Wong also conveyed that both she and the Prime Minister were touched by Yang’s sentiments, reiterating their commitment to secure his return to Australia to reunite him with his family. Yang’s health has emerged as a significant concern, particularly as he disclosed suffering from a substantial kidney cyst and inadequate medical care while in detention.
Originally from China, Yang migrated to Australia in 1998, becoming a citizen and a pro-democracy activist and novelist before his imprisonment in 2019. His trial took place behind closed doors, and under current conditions, his death sentence could be commuted to life imprisonment with good behaviour after two years. While relations between Australia and China have shown signs of improvement, evidenced by the release of journalist Cheng Lei and eased trade sanctions, Yang’s situation remains largely unchanged, prompting calls for urgent action on his behalf.