In reposting an article that states Hong Kong independence protesters should be ‘executed’, the Tasmanian Council for the Promotion of the Peaceful Reunification of China (CPPRC) appears to be openly inciting violence.
This is an alarming development which will send a shudder of fear through every Tasmanian-based international students from Hong Kong, Taiwan and mainland China who support freedom for Hong Kong.
The Lennon Wall at UTAS, with its messages of hope and support for democracy, has been twice torn down. Today, the Tasmanian CPPRC website appears to advocate for the most terrifying retaliation against supporters of the Hong Kong protests.
The CPPRC is part of the United Front Work Department, a body that undertakes propaganda work for the Chinese Government. It operates globally in Western democracies, with a principal purpose of undermining the democratic sovereignty of Taiwan and promoting Beijing’s agenda.
The incitement of violence in Australian civil society is a serious matter and a great concern. These statements, apparently sanctioned and promoted by the CPPRC in Tasmania, must be condemned by our government and investigated by Tasmania Police.
The safety of Hong Kong student protesters at UTAS is now in question. The Premier must do everything within his power to ensure these students feel safe in our community.
Freedom of expression and the right of peaceful assembly are fundamental to democracy. In 2017, the Council for the Promotion of the Peaceful Reunification of China was allowed to launch its Tasmanian chapter in our Parliament, the cornerstone of Tasmanian democracy.
Those who threaten or incite violence against those exercising their freedoms have no place in the Tasmanian political sphere.
