Causeway Bay Books owner Lam Wing-kee passes away; President Tsai expresses condolences, vows to defend democracy

(CNA, Taipei, July 2) Lam Wing-kee, owner of Causeway Bay Books, has passed away. President Lai Ching-te expressed his sorrow and condolences, stating that Lam Wing-kee's life bore witness to the preciousness of freedom of speech and that he endured authoritarian oppression while remaining steadfast in his beliefs. Taiwan will remember Lam Wing-kee's courage and will continue to resolutely defend democracy, freedom, and human rights, standing with all those who refuse to bow to authoritarianism.

The President posted on Facebook in the evening, expressing his deep sadness upon learning of Lam Wing-kee's passing. He extended his deepest condolences to Lam Wing-kee's family, friends, and all friends who care about Hong Kong's freedom and democracy.

President Lai recalled visiting the reopened Causeway Bay Books in Taipei that year and meeting and talking with Lam Wing-kee. It was a place filled with the scent of books and the air of freedom. Lam Wing-kee spoke gently, but his eyes and beliefs conveyed a steadfastness in defending freedom.

He stated that Lam Wing-kee's life witnessed the preciousness of freedom of speech and endured the fear and pain brought by authoritarian oppression. However, Lam Wing-kee did not choose silence but instead reopened the Causeway Bay Books sign in Taiwan, making the bookstore a place for Hong Kong friends to gather, voice their opinions, and support each other.

The President said Lam Wing-kee's departure is saddening, but the courage he left behind will not disappear. Taiwan will remember that a Hong Kong bookseller, in the most ordinary yet most resolute way, "told us how precious freedom is and reminded us that democracy requires the efforts of generation after generation to protect it."

"Mr. Lam Wing-kee, thank you. May you rest in peace," the President said. "Taiwan will continue to resolutely defend democracy, freedom, and human rights, and stand with all friends who refuse to bow to authoritarianism." (Editor: Hsieh Chia-chen) 1150702)

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