The recent large-scale demonstrations in Wuhan formed the "White Hair Movement". The picture shows protesters gathering in Zhongshan Park on the 15th.

(Reuters)

[Central News Agency] People in Wuhan, mainly retirees, are protesting against the medical insurance reform and the reduction of benefits. Recently, large-scale demonstrations have formed the "white hair movement".

However, local residents revealed that in the past week, the Wuhan police have been investigating protesters who participated in demonstrations and shouted slogans in various communities, and it is reported that at least five people have been arrested so far.

American Radio Free Asia reported today that many residents in Wuhan said that the police are tracking down the activists who participated in the demonstrations. It is rumored that 5 people have been arrested within a week.

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A person who did not want to disclose his identity told Radio Free Asia that Wuhan is now experiencing a "red terror"; a friend who has cooperated with many reporters in Wuhan for the past three years was followed after being followed on the 15th, and was detained on the 16th. Police station for hours.

People familiar with the matter said that among the 5 people arrested, one was a male youth around 23 years old. It was reported that the reason was to sing the "Internationale" with some old people; It was Zhang Hai who was arrested across provinces; in addition, two human rights defenders were also arrested.

But in addition, there should be many people who cannot be counted.

Zhang Hai's father died of COVID-19 three years ago. Since then, he has embarked on the road of rights protection, asking the government to disclose the death toll and other epidemic information, and has been interviewed by foreign media reporters many times.

During the "White Hair Movement" in Wuhan, Zhang Hai reposted demonstration videos, media reports and related comments on overseas social media, from defending his father's rights to defending the rights of vulnerable groups.

On February 8 this year, tens of thousands of retirees in Wuhan gathered in front of the city government to petition, asking government officials to publicly explain why the monthly medical subsidy of more than 260 yuan was reduced to tens of yuan.

In addition, residents can only be reimbursed for medical expenses exceeding 700 yuan for medical treatment. The rally demanded that the government withdraw the new medical insurance measures.

The officials later explained that in the long run, people suffering from serious illnesses could receive more subsidies from the government, but the residents did not accept the government's argument.

Retirees and residents of Wuhan demonstrated again against the government on February 15.

Authorities then began arresting demonstrators.