Free Mr. Chen

Mr. Chen’s Story

My husband Jimmy Chen Jian Yuan, is a 52- year-old Canadian Citizen of Chinese decent. He was a very successful Engineer in China, but we decided to move to Canada in 1994 seeking a better life for our family. He started a company, Malata Canada which imported electronics manufactured in China by a large Chinese company, the Wanlida Group of Companies. The business was very successful acquiring some major clients in Canada. In 2004 the business relationship broke down resulting in various civil lawsuits in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.

In October of 2006 we were invited by Wanlida to come to China to discuss resolution of the civil case. Upon arrival my husband was immediately arrested with no explanation. I have not been able to see or communicate with my husband since his detention. With the assistance of a Chinese Lawyer I discovered that my husband’s detention was related to the same matters that are being disputed in the civil lawsuit in Ontario, all of which are commercial in nature, and occurred outside China’s jurisdiction.

I am torn and broken as I struggle to maintain hope for my family. I am afraid for the safety of my husband as I have learnt that he has severe medical problems including tuberculosis which he contracted while imprisoned. Our repeated requests for him to obtain proper medical treatment have been refused. Recently he was able to get a note to us through the assistance of another prisoner. He has asked us to let the world know he has never committed any crimes and is now on a HUNGER STRIKE to protest his continued detention without proper medical treatment.

My husband was not only a conscientious father and husband but committed to helping others in the Canadian Chinese community. We are pleading with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the International Olympic Committee to issue a formal request to the Government of China to “FREE MY HUSBAND”. Without their help, and the help of Canadians, I fear that I will never see my husband alive again. Please help my family and me by signing the petition to show your support.