Critics see Olympic flip-flop

International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge was accused of backtracking on promises of press freedoms, and some Internet sites remained blocked less than a week before the Beijing Games are to begin.

Under pressure from the committee, Chinese organizers unblocked some sites at the main media center and venues, but others remained censored for journalists covering the Summer Games.

“We require that different media have the fullest access possible to report on the Olympic Games,” Rogge said. “And I’m adamant in saying there has been no deal whatsoever to accept restrictions.”

Chinese officials and high-ranking IOC members have repeatedly said there would be no censorship of Internet access for accredited journalists covering the Games, even though Chinese authorities regularly block sites used by citizens.