Beijing — A spokesperson for the Chinese mainland on Wednesday criticized the Taiwan authorities led by Lai Ching-te, accusing them of depriving Taiwan people of their fundamental rights and freedoms.
Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks during a regular press conference. The criticism comes in response to reports that two individuals from the Taiwan region are being investigated for posting statements such as “I am Chinese” and “I love China” on social media platforms.
Chen described the actions of Lai’s administration as an escalation of “green terror” and creating a “chilling effect” on free speech. “The Taiwan authorities led by Lai have frequently threatened, intimidated, and retaliated against compatriots in Taiwan,” Chen said. “These actions aim to restrict the freedom of thought and speech among Taiwan people, revealing the hypocrisy behind the so-called democracy they promote.”
The Chinese mainland has expressed growing concern over what it views as increasing restrictions on free expression in Taiwan. The term “green terror” refers to alleged intimidation tactics used by the Taiwan authorities to suppress pro-mainland sentiments.
Lai Ching-te, who currently serves as the leader of the Taiwan region, has yet to respond to these allegations. The incident has sparked discussions about freedom of speech and the political climate in Taiwan.
