The Writers in Prison Committee (WiPC) of International PEN is seriously concerned about the detention of Jamyang Kyi, prominent Tibetan singer and a song-writer, internet writer and feminist activist, who has reportedly been held without charge since 1 April 2008. The WiPC fears that Kyi may be held for her writings and activism, and if so, calls for her immediate and unconditional release in accordance with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China is a signatory.

According to the WiPC’s information, Jamyang Kyi, who is also a TV producer, was reportedly escorted from her office at Qinghai TV, in Qinghai Province, north-west of the country, on 1 April 2008, and continues to be held without charge. There are reports that police confiscated her personal computer and her contact lists after searching her home. Her husband says that he was last able to contact her on 7 April. Radio Free Asia, without revealing its source, reported that the police in Xining, the capital of Qinghai, had formally arrested Kyi, but that the charges were not disclosed.

Kyi has worked as a producer in the Tibetan-language section of state-run Qinghai TV for twenty years. This is thought to be the first time that she has suffered persecution by the authorities.

The arrest of Jamyang Kyi occurs amidst the crackdown on anti-government protestors in the Tibet Autonomous Region and neighbouring provinces. There are accounts of arbitrary arrests and use of excessive force in breaking up the demonstrators.

Recommended links:

Committee to Protect Journalists (www.cpj.org )

Please send appeals:

• Expressing serious concern at the arrest of Tibetan writer Jamyang Kyi, seeking details of the charges against her;
• Calling for her immediate and unconditional release, if held in violation of her right to freedom of expression, in accordance with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China is a signatory.

His Excellency Hu Jintao

President of the People’s Republic of China

State Council

Beijing 100032

P.R. China

CC. Secretary of the Tibet Autonomous Regional Party Committee

Zhang Qingli

Zhonggong Xizang Zizhiqu Weiyuanhui

Lhasashi, Xizang Zizhiqu

People's Republic of China

Please note that there are no fax numbers for the Chinese authorities. WiPC recommends that you copy your appeal to the Chinese embassy in your country asking them to forward it and welcoming any comments.

Please copy appeals to the diplomatic representative for China in your country if possible.

**Please contact the PEN WiPC office in London if sending appeals after 13 May 2008**