Overview
Fourteen pro-democracy activists were convicted in Hong Kong’s biggest national security case, where the court ruled that their plan to effect change through an unofficial primary election would have undermined the government’s authority and created a constitutional crisis.
Background
After the 2019 protest movement in Hong Kong, dissent has been suppressed through reduced public choice in elections, crackdowns on media, and the Beijing-imposed security law under which the activists were convicted.
Convictions and Sentencing
- Former lawmakers Leung Kwok-hung, Lam Cheuk-ting, Helena Wong, and Raymond Chan were found guilty of conspiracy to commit subversion and could face up to life in prison.
- Former district councilors Lee Yue-shun and Lawrence Lau were acquitted, but the prosecution plans to appeal against the acquittals.
Verdict Summary
In a summary of the verdict, the court stated that the activists aimed to veto budgets using the power conferred by the Legislative Council, leading to a constitutional crisis in Hong Kong.
Legal Implications
The court concluded that “unlawful means” are not limited to criminal acts and that the accused’s knowledge of the means being unlawful was not necessary for prosecution.
Reactions and Impact
- Observers see this case as an example of the security law being used to suppress political opposition after the 2019 protests.
- The convictions have drawn criticism from human rights organizations and activists, who see them as an attack on democratic processes and freedom of expression.
Aftermath
The unofficial primary in June 2020 aimed to shortlist pro-democracy candidates for the official election, but the government postponed the election, citing public health risks. This led to changes favoring pro-Beijing lawmakers in the legislature.
