45 Activists Sentenced in Hong Kong’s Largest National Security Case
- Forty-five former lawmakers and activists in Hong Kong received prison sentences ranging from four to ten years.
- The individuals were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion due to their involvement in an unofficial primary election in 2020.
- Legal scholar Benny Tai received the longest sentence of ten years.
Hong Kong Sentences 45 Activists in National Security Case
Forty-five former lawmakers and activists in Hong Kong received prison sentences ranging from four to ten years. This verdict is part of Hong Kong’s largest national security case under a law imposed by Beijing, which has severely restricted the pro-democracy movement.
The individuals were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion due to their involvement in an unofficial primary election in 2020. Prosecutors accused them of trying to disrupt the government and force the city’s leader to resign. They aimed to win a legislative majority to block government budgets.
Legal scholar Benny Tai received the longest sentence of ten years. Judges noted reduced sentences for some defendants who claimed they did not know the plan was illegal. However, the judges did not reduce sentences for Tai and former lawmaker Alvin Yeung because they were lawyers who actively promoted the election plan.
Earlier in the year, two of the original 47 defendants were acquitted. Most other defendants either pleaded guilty or were found guilty. The judges emphasized that the activists had dedicated substantial resources and time to the primary election, which they deemed serious enough to pose a threat to government authority.
After sentencing, many defendants waved at their relatives in the courtroom. Activist Gwyneth Ho, sentenced to seven years, expressed on social media that their true crime was challenging Beijing’s system. Chan Po-ying, wife of another defendant, argued the sentences were unjust and criticized the use of laws to stifle opposition.
Many observers view the trial as a warning against dissent in the aftermath of significant anti-government protests in 2019. The Hong Kong and Beijing governments argue that the national security law is essential for the stability of the city.
The U.S. Consulate condemned the sentences, stating the defendants were penalized for participating in political activities. In contrast, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that no one should exploit democracy as cover for illegal acts.
The case has drawn attention to the diminishing civil liberties in Hong Kong since its return to China in 1997. More than 200 people lined up in adverse weather conditions outside the court, showing support for the activists. The lengthy detentions highlighted the emotional toll on families involved.