19 May:
20 May:
21 May:
Hainan, Xinjiang, Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Jilin, Gansu, Shaanxi, Qinghai, Inner Mongolia, Guizhou, Guangxi, Yunnan, Hunan and Zhejiang. Protestors include students, workers,
journalists and writers.
Newly-established "Peking Workers' Self-rule Federation" issues statement calling for a general strike in Peking on 20 May if the government does not accept students' conditions. (Hong Kong Hsin Wan Pao 19.5.89)
Li Peng delivers an important speech "on behalf of the Party Central Committee and the State Council" at a meeting convened by the CCP Central Committee and the State Council. He threatens tough action to quell the 'turmoil' with the backing of the army. Yang Shangkun also at the meeting. (Peking television 19.5.89) Also present are Qiao Shi, Hu Qili, Wang Zhen and Yao Yilin. Last appearance by Li
Peng.
Li Peng issues declaration of martial law in parts of Peking to take effect from 10am, "to check the turmoil with a firm hand." Chen Xitong, Mayor of Peking, signs martial law orders 1-3. Order No 1 states martial law is enforced in Gongcheng, Xicheng, Chongwen, Xuanwu, Shijingshan, Haidian, Fengtai and Chaoyang districts of Peking. Orders No 2 and 3 cover foreigners and journalists' activities. (Peking television and radio 20.5,89)
Government spokesman says troops will not be used to suppress the students (Xinhua 20.5.89)
Students continue their peaceful protest in Tiananmen Square despite the announcement of martial law.
Old marshals Nie Rongzhen, and Xu Xiangqian deny that the government will suppress the tens of thousands of students in Tiananmen Square (Guardian 22.5.89). Peking radio reports visits by students to the two marshals.
Peking residents erect roadblocks at night at major intersections. Traffic is marshalled by students and volunteers.
Helicopters fly low over Tiananmen Square dropping leaflets of Li Peng's speech.
(Peking
VC3ASH
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.