Hong Kong: Hong Kong’s High Court has sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to jail terms ranging from just over four years to a decade, marking a turning point in the city’s political landscape. The landmark national security trial has drawn international condemnation and further eroded the city’s once-vibrant democracy movement.
The case involved a total of 47 activists who were arrested and charged in 2021 with conspiracy to commit subversion under the national security law imposed by Beijing. Benny Tai, a former legal scholar described as one of the key organizers, received the maximum sentence of 10 years.
Unofficial Primary Election at the Core
The charges centered on the organization of an unofficial “primary election” in 2020. The aim was to identify the strongest pro-democracy candidates for the upcoming legislative election. Prosecutors alleged the activists intended to disrupt governance by using their legislative positions to block government budgets, which could have triggered the dissolution of the legislature.
International Condemnation
The United States criticized the trial as “politically motivated”, urging the release of the activists. “These individuals were peacefully participating in political activities, exercising rights that should be protected,” a U.S. statement declared.
Marco Rubio, the nominee for U.S. Secretary of State, denounced the convictions in an earlier open letter. He described the trial as a “comprehensive assault on Hong Kong’s autonomy, rule of law, and fundamental freedoms.”
China’s Stance
Chinese and Hong Kong authorities defended the use of the national security law, asserting that it was crucial for restoring stability following the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Officials maintained that all defendants were treated in accordance with the law.
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Closely Watched Trial
The trial, which lasted 118 days, attracted significant public attention. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Court, some waiting in the rain for hours to secure seats in the courtroom.
Margaret, a 59-year-old supporter, explained her presence: “I feel such an injustice needs witnessing. They [the democrats] need to know they still have public support.”
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Fourteen defendants were convicted in May, including Australian citizen Gordon Ng and activist Owen Chow, while two were acquitted. The remaining 31 defendants, including prominent figures like student activist Joshua Wong and Benny Tai, pleaded guilty.
