Chinese real estate tycoon Ren Zhiqiang, who was sentenced to 18 years by the Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, has recently been reported to have passed away. However, veteran media personality Yabuta Akio stated on the evening of the 5th that through a reliable special channel, he confirmed that Ren Zhiqiang is still alive, although his condition is not optimistic. Yabuta Akio called on the international community to pay attention to Ren Zhiqiang’s situation.
According to Yabuta Akio’s post on X platform on the 5th, he received reliable information that the 75-year-old Ren Zhiqiang is still serving his sentence in a prison in Beijing, and his current physical condition is very poor, urgently requiring comprehensive medical treatment. The post quoted insiders revealing that several years ago, Ren Zhiqiang was suspected of having prostate cancer. He has repeatedly requested further examinations and surgical treatment, but has not received appropriate medical care. His condition has deteriorated significantly, having to get up to use the toilet more than a dozen times every night, and he is in unbearable pain, with the prison only providing basic medications that are no longer effective in controlling the illness.
Yabuta Akio stated that Ren Zhiqiang, who has long been within the system, has repeatedly dared to speak the truth to power and openly express different opinions, earning him the nickname “Ren Cannon” and making him a figure worthy of respect. He hopes that the international community will also remember the name “Ren Zhiqiang.”
He urged the Chinese authorities to immediately arrange a complete cancer screening and necessary treatment for Ren Zhiqiang. If the medical conditions in the prison are insufficient, he should be promptly transferred to a hospital with the necessary facilities, or approved for medical treatment outside of prison.
Yabuta Akio called on the international community to “not remain silent anymore.” Governments of countries such as the United States, Japan, and various European nations, as well as the United Nations and international human rights organizations, should pay attention to Ren Zhiqiang’s current health condition, demand the Chinese government to disclose his medical information, and ensure that he receives appropriate treatment.
In conclusion, he stated, “Let us gather the strength of all sectors to allow him to continue living.”
Ren Zhiqiang himself is a “red second generation,” with close ties to former Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan. In January 6, 2013, at a New Year forum at Peking University’s Guanghua School of Management, he issued a democratic declaration, calling for the dismantling of the authoritarian system and the establishment of a democratic system. He criticized the Communist regime and publicly questioned Xi Jinping’s policies.
In early March 2020, Ren Zhiqiang criticized the Chinese government’s handling of the COVID-19 outbreak, specifically targeting Xi Jinping for covering up the truth and incompetence. His remarks led to his disappearance shortly after the article was published. In September of the same year, Ren was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his outspoken views.
In 2024, an open letter circulating online, allegedly written by Ren Zhiqiang’s daughter, revealed his deteriorating health conditions and lack of proper medical treatment while in prison. His health continued to worsen, and he was diagnosed with asthma without receiving the necessary surgical intervention.
On September 27, 2026, a video of Pan Shiyi speaking at a private gathering emerged, where he mentioned Ren Zhiqiang writing a letter before being arrested, which was sent to 11 people. This revelation sparked discussions on social media.