Ren Wanding, a veteran human rights activist, was arrested in June 1989. He was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment and deprivation of his political rights for a further three years. He is held at present in Beijing No. 2 prison, where long-term prisoners are housed. AI considers him a prisoner of conscience and is calling for his immediate and unconditional release. AI is also concerned about reports which suggest that his health has deteriorated: he is reported to suffer from eye problems which have impaired his vision. He is also reported to suffer from internal and external haemorrhoids, chronic prolapsed rectum, chronic lower back pain and sciatica, chronic sinusitis and upper respiratory tract infection and frequent gastritis. Conditions in Beijing No 2 prison are reportedly poor.
