Paralympic body asks China why it censored anti-war remarks during opening ceremony
- International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons told the audience, which included President Xi Jinping, he was “horrified” at what was happening in the world
- As Parsons condemned the war in Ukraine, state broadcaster CCTV appeared to lower the volume and his remarks became inaudible
The International Paralympic Committee is demanding answers from China’s state broadcaster after an impassioned, anti-war speech by its head appeared to have been censored during the Beijing winter games opening ceremony on Friday evening.
“We are aware of reports and have asked CCTV for an explanation,” an IPC spokesperson said. CCTV could not be immediately reached for comment outside office hours on Saturday.
Paralympics President Andrew Parsons told the audience, which included President Xi Jinping, that he was “horrified” at what was happening in the world, in an apparent reference to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
China has avoided taking a clear stance against the invasion, while upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty. The IPC was also involved in controversy before the games. It reversed a decision to let Russia and Belarus participate after “multiple” athletes threatened a boycott that could have halted the event.
“The 21st century is a time for dialogue and diplomacy, not war and hate,” Parsons said, adding that the Olympic Truce for peace during the Olympic and Paralympic Games is a UN Resolution. “It must be respected and observed, not violated.”
