Chen Yongzhou confesses to wrongdoing on state TV

Imprisoned Chinese journalist Chen Yongzhou, whose newspaper New Express has made front-page appeals for his release, has confessed to wrongdoing on state TV.

“I’m willing to admit my guilt and to show repentance,” said reporter Chen Yongzhou, arrested over claims he defamed a partly state-owned firm.

State media said he had admitted writing false stories for money.

Analysts say there have been a number of televised confessions recently in high-profile or politicized cases.

But campaigners have frequently criticized the practice, saying they are often made under duress and violate rights to due process.

Chen Yongzhou wrote several articles for the Guangdong-based New Express alleging financial irregularities at a construction-equipment company called Zoomlion.

“In this case I’ve caused damages to Zoomlion and also the whole news media industry and its ability to earn the public’s trust,” he told state broadcaster CCTV.

“I did this mainly because I hankered after money and fame. I’ve been used. I’ve realized my wrongdoing.”

State media said Chen Yongzhou had confessed to taking bribes, but did not report who might have paid the bribes.

Chen Yongzhou’s case attracted huge attention after the New Express twice used its front page to call for his release.

The New Express has not yet commented on the confession.