Chinese Vice-Premier’s Supporters Attack Freedom of Speech

Chinese Vice-Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to Christchurch, stirred emotions as nine Falun Dafa protesters were drowned in a sea of Chinese supporters.

Falun Dafa practitioners hold banners awaiting the Chinese vice-premier arrival. Edward Robinson/The Epoch Times

CHRISTCHURCH—Chinese Vice-Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to Christchurch, stirred emotions as nine Falun Dafa protesters were drowned in a sea of Chinese supporters outside the Christchurch town hall.

The vice-premier, who is considered the likely successor to Premier Wen Jiabao, arrived in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Sunday, November 1.

According to a press statement from the beehive, Mr Li Keqiang was in New Zealand for discussions on the economy, trade, climate and international affairs.

In anticipation of the vice-premier’s arrival, Falun Gong practitioners rallied outside the Town Hall with banners to condemn the 10-year persecution of Falun Gong that is taking place in China.

Also awaiting the vice-premier were around two hundred supporters from the Chinese community who were waving red flags and loudly chanting Chinese Communist Party songs.

The peaceful ambiance changed quickly when the throng of Chinese supporters moved down the street and overwhelmed the nine Falun Gong practitioners.

“I was afraid when they surged towards us and relieved when the police showed up and stood in front of us,” said Maike Bittermann, a Falun Dafa Practitioner.