Uyghur rights organisation, World Uyghur Congress (WUC), has strongly condemned China’s threats, disinformation and smear tactics against its leadership.
It is noteworthy that WUC and its leaders are being subjected to a deliberate campaign of misinformation and character assassination by unknown sources through personal videos and posts.
“WUC strongly denounces these smear tactics and continued threats against its leadership and staff,” the statement issued Thursday said.
he/she also said it was “deeply troubling” that the campaign included attempts to intimidate and tarnish the personal reputations of the WUC leadership and its staff.
“The slanderous campaigns have specifically targeted staff members and leadership, including WUC interim president Dr. Erkin Ekrem, vice president Perhat Muhammad, and staff members Erkin Zünün, Ekber Tursun, İptihar Abdureşit, and Zümrte Erkin.
These attacks have used their private lives to spread misinformation, damage their credibility and reputation within and outside the community, and put them at risk of attack. A suspicious package was also sent to an employee’s private residence.
The rights group further reported that its members had repeatedly received suspicious requests to provide personal information about Mr Dolkun Isa in exchange for financial compensation.
It said that several unidentified individuals, claiming to represent WUC, were sending threatening messages to scholars who had signed a joint letter against harassment.
It added, “These anonymous individuals do not speak on behalf of WUC. The organization strongly rejects any threats made against any individual, especially for expressing their opinions, and calls for reacting with caution when anyone claims to speak on behalf of WUC outside of official channels.”
The WUC further said that the Chinese government has long been trying to silence Uighur human rights activists and critics by fabricating lies and launching smear campaigns. It said such attacks could be “dangerous” and undermine the entire movement.
The statement further said that the WUC will continue to monitor these incidents and strive to maintain a safe working environment for all. It also called on all parties to refrain from attacking or harassing its staff, members and other concerned persons.
“The WUC remains steadfast in its mission and dedication to the human rights of the Uighur people and will not be discouraged in its efforts,” the rights group said.
