Dissident Hong Kong Bookseller Lam Wing-kee Dies

Lam Wing-kee, the bookseller known for defying Beijing, has passed away at 70 after battling lung cancer, marking a significant loss for free speech.

Lam Wing-kee, a notable Hong Kong bookseller who famously defied the Chinese government, has died at the age of 70 after a struggle with lung cancer. Reports indicate he passed away late on a Thursday at Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taipei.

Lam was recognized for his courage in promoting literature critical of Beijing, which led to his detention in 2015. He was one of several booksellers apprehended for selling books that challenged the Chinese political elite. Fearing extradition due to new laws proposed in Hong Kong, he fled to Taiwan in 2019.

After his arrival in Taiwan, Lam reopened his bookshop, Causeway Bay Books, a move that was celebrated as a potent symbol of democracy and freedom on the island. His actions resonated with many, showcasing his commitment to free expression in a region facing increasing authoritarianism.

In a heartfelt expression of grief, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te took to Facebook to convey his condolences, stating he was “deeply saddened” by the news of Lam’s passing. He recognized Lam’s life as a testament to the importance of freedom of expression and the hardships inflicted under oppressive regimes.

Lai emphasized that Lam’s determination not to remain silent transformed the bookshop into a haven where individuals from Hong Kong could convene, share their thoughts, and offer mutual support.

In his final interview with the BBC, Lam made it clear that everyone must adhere to their own values without succumbing to the pressures of authoritarianism. “You can’t go against your values, nor can you betray others,” he stated, embodied the unwavering spirit he lived by.

His past also included a harrowing arrest during a trip to mainland China, where he was detained for over 400 days. The crackdown on booksellers in Hong Kong incited considerable fear, fostering widespread protests across the territory in 2019, reflecting growing anxieties regarding freedoms being eroded.

Despite the challenges he faced, Lam Wing-kee remained a courageous advocate for what he believed to be right, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire many who stand for liberty and free expression.