The work of Wong Kei-kwan drew the Chinese government’s attention and complaints prompting Ming Pao to end its partnership with the artist. According to Fox News, this is one of many examples of speech and media restrictions by Beijing.
The prominent cartoonist, known best under his pen name, Zunzi, sent a text message to the Associated Press with two laughing emojis that read, “Everyone knows why publication has to be halted, but no one will ‘confirm’ the reason.”
Fox News reported that Ming Pao did not respond when asked to comment.
Wong said, “Honestly, I appreciate very much that Ming Pao let my cartoons be published until now. If it had been on other platforms, the halting of publication would have happened way earlier.” As a creator, he plans to continue with his work and is hoping to find another outlet. He believes freedom of speech and expression has been threatened.
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Since 2019, following large pro-democracy protests, Beijing imposed a National Security Law that has artists and other media content producers wary of giving the perception of challenging Communist control.
May 13, 2023
In recent months, criticism has been directed at Wong’s cartoons by multiple government agencies. Included in those accusatory agencies are the security bureau and the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, with the latter saying he smeared “the government’s role of appointing local committee members who will choose candidates in district council elections later this year,” according to Fox News.
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Wong’s controversial cartoon depicts a man telling a woman that no matter if some candidates failed exams and had health issues, they could be appointed to committees as long as they were deemed suitable by “senior officers.”
Not only would the newspaper not comment on halting the publishing of Wong’s cartoons, but neither would Alice Mak, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs. She told reporters, “But for false statements or things that are far from facts, we have to clarify to let residents understand about the truth.”
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On its Facebook page, the Ming Pao Staff Association wrote, “Other than news reports, the works of columnists are also a part of Ming Pao’s core value. A diversified society should be inclusive of different voices. We hope all sectors can respect freedom of speech.”
Global media watchdog, Reporters Without Borders ranked Hong Kong as 140th of 480 countries and territories last week, noting the city “experienced an unprecedented setback” since the security law went into effect in 2020.
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