In a significant and controversial ruling, 14 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists were found guilty of subversion, while two were acquitted. This verdict, part of the largest trial against the city’s democratic opposition, has been criticized globally and is seen as a pivotal moment in Hong Kong’s political landscape.
Key Verdicts and Reactions
The trial saw 16 defendants facing charges of conspiracy to commit subversion under a national security law imposed by China. Fourteen were found guilty, while two were acquitted. Sentencing for those found guilty will be determined later, with potential prison terms ranging from three years to life. Thirty-one other defendants had already pleaded guilty, and four turned prosecution witnesses.
International Criticism
The verdict has drawn significant international condemnation. Amnesty International described the outcome as a “near-total purge” of Hong Kong’s political opposition. British Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne Marie Trevelyan stated that the verdict further tarnishes Hong Kong’s international reputation and undermines the city’s democratic processes. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed deep concern and emphasized her government’s commitment to consular access for Gordon Ng, an Australian citizen among those convicted.
Tight Security and Public Sentiment
The High Court in Hong Kong was under tight security during the verdict announcement, with a heavy police presence. Some supporters queued overnight to secure a spot in the courtroom. A supporter named Chiu highlighted the historical significance of the trial, noting the defendants’ stand for democratic values and their efforts to bring change.
Details of the Charges
The charges stem from the defendants’ involvement in an unofficial primary election in July 2020, aimed at selecting the strongest pro-democracy candidates for the Legislative Council elections. The prosecution argued that this constituted a “vicious plot” to paralyze the government and force the resignation of Hong Kong’s leader. The court’s verdict stated that had the defendants succeeded, it would have created a constitutional crisis.
Notable Defendants and Sentencing
Among those convicted are prominent former lawmakers Leung Kwok-hung, Lam Cheuk-ting, and Helena Wong. Leung, the oldest defendant at 68, maintains his innocence. His wife, Chan Po-ying, expressed his ongoing emotional struggle and his belief in his innocence.
The two acquitted individuals, barrister Lawrence Lau and social worker Lee Yue-shun, had their bail extended and the prosecution plans to appeal their acquittals. The case has been adjourned until June 25 for mitigating arguments before final sentencing.
Broader Implications
The trial is part of a broader crackdown on Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement following the imposition of the national security law in 2020. This law was enacted after mass protests in 2019 against Beijing’s proposed legislation that was seen as a threat to Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms. Since then, numerous democratic activists have been arrested, and liberal media outlets and NGOs have been forced to close. Street protests and demonstrations have significantly decreased due to intense policing.
Amnesty International’s China director, Sarah Brooks, described the mass conviction as the most severe use of the national security law to silence dissent. Despite international criticism, Beijing maintains that the law has brought stability to Hong Kong and insists that human rights are respected.
Conclusion
The ‘Hong Kong 47’ trial marks a critical juncture in Hong Kong’s struggle for democratic freedoms. The global response underscores the growing concern over the erosion of rights and freedoms in the city. The final sentencing of those convicted will be closely watched as a measure of Hong Kong’s future political trajectory.
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Written By Joe Brens