45 Hong Kong Activists Sentenced: Largest National Security Case Yet

Hong Kong Activists Sentenced Under National Security Law

Forty-five former lawmakers and activists received prison sentences ranging from four to ten years in Hong Kong. This is the largest national security case since the Beijing-imposed law took effect in 2020, which significantly restricted the pro-democracy movement.

The defendants were charged for their roles in an unofficial primary election. Prosecutors claimed they aimed to disrupt Hong Kong’s government and force the leader to resign by winning a majority in the legislature. They intended to block government budgets to achieve this.

Legal scholar Benny Tai, deemed the mastermind by the judges, received the longest sentence of ten years. Sentences were reduced for defendants who were unaware they were breaking the law. However, Tai and former lawmaker Alvin Yeung, both lawyers, did not receive reduced penalties due to their active roles in the scheme.

Two of the original 47 defendants were acquitted earlier this year. The others either pleaded guilty or were found guilty of conspiracy to commit subversion. The judges stated that the activists’ plans would have undermined the government’s authority.

The court rejected claims from some defendants that the plan was unrealistic, emphasizing that significant effort and resources were dedicated to organizing the primary election. The judgment stated that the participants had fully committed to making it a success, regardless of challenges.

After the sentences, some defendants waved at their families. Gwyneth Ho, a journalist-turned-activist sentenced to seven years, expressed on social media that their real crime was not accepting manipulated elections. Chan Po-ying, wife of defendant Leung Kwok-hung, remarked that their imprisonment was unjust. Philip Bowring, husband of Claudia Mo, felt relieved that the sentencing was complete.

The trial highlights how authorities suppressed dissent after major anti-government protests in 2019. Observers noted that these actions contradicted Beijing’s earlier promises to safeguard civil liberties in Hong Kong.

The U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong condemned the sentences, stating the defendants were prosecuted for participating in lawful political activities. In contrast, the Chinese Foreign Ministry maintained that no one should use democracy as an excuse for unlawful actions.

The sentencing has drawn criticism from various foreign governments and human rights organizations. The case impacted many pro-democracy activists, including Joshua Wong and young activist Owen Chow, who received lengthy sentences as well.

Most defendants had already spent over three and a half years in detention before being sentenced, causing emotional pain for them and their families. Public interest was evident, with many people lining up outside the court to show support.

Thirty-one activists pleaded guilty, which provided them with a chance for reduced sentences. The law allows for varying sentences based on the seriousness of the crime and the role played by the defendant.