Hong Kong Warns Media of ‘Smear Campaign
Here’s a summary of the news article:
Hong Kong authorities have warned international news organizations against reporting what they deem ”false information and smear campaigns” related to the recent deadly fire in Tai Po and upcoming legislative elections.
Key points:
* Deadly Fire: The fire at Wang Fuk Court housing complex, which killed at least 159 people, sparked significant public anger.
* Warning to Media: The Office for Safeguarding National Security held a meeting with journalists, warning them not to spread misinformation or incite division. They used a phrase meaning “do not say you have not been warned.”
* Legislative Elections: Hong Kong is holding elections on Sunday, and authorities are keen to maintain “social stability.”
* Press freedom Concerns: Hong Kong’s press freedom has substantially declined since the imposition of the national security law in 2020. it ranked 140th out of 180 in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index.
* Crackdown on Media: The article notes the impact of the national security legislation on media outlets like Apple Daily.