Four Christians in China’s southwestern Guizhou province are facing trial in a case connected to their involvement in church activities, including children’s Sunday school classes. The four men, identified as Wei Yongqiang, He Jinbao, Long Jian and Cheng Yongbing, are accused in a case that supporters say criminalises ordinary Christian religious activities. The development has raised fresh concerns about the treatment of independent Christian groups in China.
According to reports published on November 12, supporters of the four Christians have raised concerns about difficulties their defence lawyers are experiencing in obtaining copies of the case files. The situation has created uncertainty for the families and church communities following the legal proceedings. The case is being closely watched by religious freedom advocates who believe it could have wider implications for independent churches.
China has maintained strict oversight of religious organisations, particularly churches that operate outside officially recognised religious structures. Christian groups have repeatedly reported restrictions on worship, religious education and church leadership. The trial has therefore renewed concerns about the freedom of Christians to organise and practise their faith without government interference.
