Hong Kong court hands down sentences to 45 pro-democracy activists in significant security trial
The U.S. has condemned the trial, asserting that the activists should be freed for “peacefully engaging in political activities.”
HONG KONG — On Tuesday, Hong Kong’s High Court sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms of up to a decade in a pivotal national security trial that has harmed the city’s previously vibrant democracy movement and provoked worldwide criticism.
In total, 47 pro-democracy activists were arrested and charged in 2021 with conspiracy to commit subversion under a national security law imposed by Beijing, facing possible sentences of life imprisonment. Benny Tai, identified as an “organizer” of the group, received a 10-year sentence.
The prison sentences varied from just over four years to a maximum of ten years.
The charges stemmed from the organization of an unofficial “primary election” in 2020 designed to identify suitable candidates for an impending legislative election. Prosecutors claimed that the activists conspired to undermine the government through potential disruptive actions had they been elected.
The United States criticized the trial as “politically motivated” and urged that the activists should be released, as their actions were simply “peaceful participation in political activities” which were lawful.
Senator Marco Rubio, President-elect Donald Trump’s candidate for secretary of state, has vehemently opposed the trial, previously issuing an open letter condemning the convictions of the 47 activists as proof of a “comprehensive assault on Hong Kong’s autonomy, rule of law, and fundamental freedoms” enacted by the national security law.
Both the Chinese and Hong Kong governments argue that the national security laws are essential to restore order after extensive pro-democracy protests in 2019, and assert that the activists are being processed according to local laws.
Attention-grabbing trial
Authorities maintained a strong police presence outside the West Kowloon Magistrates Court, extending for several blocks around the area.
“I believe it’s important to witness such injustice,” stated Margaret, 59, who arrived wearing a white raincoat and black mask and had queued from Sunday afternoon. “I’ve closely followed their story. The democrats need to feel that they still have public support.”
After a lengthy 118-day trial, 14 of the activists were declared guilty in May, including Australian citizen Gordon Ng and activist Owen Chow, while two were cleared of charges.
The remaining 31 activists pleaded guilty, among them student activists Joshua Wong and Tai.
