Hong Kong police on Wednesday arrested four members of a pro-democracy group that organises the annual June 4 rally to commemorate those who died in the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989. They have been arrested under the National Security Law.

Hong Kong police arrest members of a pro-democracy group

The Hong Kong media group owned by jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Sunday that it aimed to go into liquidation. The announcement said that board of directors of Next Digital Ltd had resigned to facilitate the process.&nbsp;

Next Digital was the publisher of Apple Daily, the popular pro-democracy newspaper that was closed in June after its newsroom was raided by police officers.

The company's assets were frozen as part of the national security investigation and its shares have been suspended from trading since June 17.

In a filing to the Hong Kong bourse late on Sunday, Next Digital said the best interests of shareholders, creditors, employees and other stakeholders will be served by an orderly liquidation.

Ip Yut Kin had tendered his resignation as a non-executive director and chairman, while Louis Gordon Crovitz, Mark Lambert Clifford and Elic Lam have tendered their resignations as independent non-executive directors, the company said.

The company CEO has resigned in July. He was arrested at the time of the raid on Apple Daily office

Next Digital said it hoped the resignations of the remaining board members will result in liquidators being allowed by the Hong Kong government to authorize payments that directors were banned from approving, including for creditors and for former staff.

It also said it hoped that liquidators will be able to conclude value-creating transactions that would generate funds to benefit creditors.

The company said the Hong Kong government has never indicated which articles published by Apple Daily allegedly violated the national security law, and the uncertainty created a climate of fear, resulting in many resignations including those responsible for the regulatory compliance duties of the publicly traded company.

"We observe that the events affecting the company and its people following the invocation of the National Security Law occurred despite there having been no trials and no convictions," it said. "Under this new law, a company can be forced into liquidation without the involvement of the courts."

"As Apple Daily often observed, Hong Kong people have a collective memory of what life was like elsewhere when freedom of speech was denied: No other rights are safe," it said.

Critics of the national security law, introduced in June 2020, say it has been used to muzzle dissent and erode fundamental freedoms, including those of the media, in the former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hong Kong media group owned by jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Sunday that it aimed to go into liquidation. The announcement said that board of directors of Next Digital Ltd had resigned to facilitate the process.

The Hong Kong media group owned by jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai said on Sunday that it aimed to go into liquidation. The announcement said that board of directors of Next Digital Ltd had resigned to facilitate the process. Next Digital was the publisher of Apple Daily, the popular pro-democracy newspaper that was closed in June after its newsroom was raided by police officers. The company's assets were frozen as part of the national security investigation and its shares have been suspended from trading since June 17. In a filing to the Hong Kong bourse late on Sunday, Next Digital said the best interests of shareholders, creditors, employees and other stakeholders will be served by an orderly liquidation. Ip Yut Kin had tendered his resignation as a non-executive director and chairman, while Louis Gordon Crovitz, Mark Lambert Clifford and Elic Lam have tendered their resignations as independent non-executive directors, the company said. The company CEO has resigned in July. He was arrested at the time of the raid on Apple Daily office Next Digital said it hoped the resignations of the remaining board members will result in liquidators being allowed by the Hong Kong government to authorize payments that directors were banned from approving, including for creditors and for former staff. It also said it hoped that liquidators will be able to conclude value-creating transactions that would generate funds to benefit creditors. The company said the Hong Kong government has never indicated which articles published by Apple Daily allegedly violated the national security law, and the uncertainty created a climate of fear, resulting in many resignations including those responsible for the regulatory compliance duties of the publicly traded company. "We observe that the events affecting the company and its people following the invocation of the National Security Law occurred despite there having been no trials and no convictions," it said. "Under this new law, a company can be forced into liquidation without the involvement of the courts." "As Apple Daily often observed, Hong Kong people have a collective memory of what life was like elsewhere when freedom of speech was denied: No other rights are safe," it said. Critics of the national security law, introduced in June 2020, say it has been used to muzzle dissent and erode fundamental freedoms, including those of the media, in the former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai's media group to wind down

Taking forward the case against the pro-democracy activists of Hong Kong, the court has handed a 16 months long jail sentence to seven activists.

Activists including Figo Chan, a former convenor of the now-disbanded Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF); Raphael Wong and&nbsp;Avery Ng&nbsp;of the League of Social Democrats political party; and former legislators Cyd Ho, Yeung Sum, Albert Ho and Leung Kwok-hung, who is known in Hong Kong as “Long Hair”, have been handed down jail sentences ranging from 11 to 16 months.

However, all the mentioned activists except Raphael Wong had already been serving jail time on accusations of illegal assembly cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-to-provide-temporary-safe-havens-to-hong-kongers-403631">WATCH |</a>

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The seven pro-democracy activists have been accused and plead guilty of organising and inciting other to conduct illegal assembly in the city on October 20, 2019. The ‘illegal assembly’ was attended by tens of thousands of locals who took to the streets to protest against the rising control of China on Hong Kong and the new security law imposed by China.

Demonstrators were met with tear gas and water cannons which were used by the local police to disperse the crowd.

“Restrictions were applied in the interests of public safety, public order and the protection of others’ rights and freedoms,” Judge Amanda Woodcock told the district court.

The reaction of the police and local administration was highly criticised by international governments and groups from all over the world who saw this as a way of silencing democratic voices.

Taking forward the case against the pro-democracy activists of Hong Kong, the court has handed a 16 months long jail sentence to seven activists. Activists including Figo Chan, a former convenor of the now-disbanded Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF); Raphael Wong and Avery Ng of the League of Social Democrats political party; and former legislators Cyd Ho, Yeung Sum, Albert Ho and Leung Kwok-hung, who is known in Hong Kong as “Long Hair”, have been handed down jail sentences ranging from 11 to 16 months.

Taking forward the case against the pro-democracy activists of Hong Kong, the court has handed a 16 months long jail sentence to seven activists. Activists including Figo Chan, a former convenor of the now-disbanded Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF); Raphael Wong and Avery Ng of the League of Social Democrats political party; and former legislators Cyd Ho, Yeung Sum, Albert Ho and Leung Kwok-hung, who is known in Hong Kong as “Long Hair”, have been handed down jail sentences ranging from 11 to 16 months. However, all the mentioned activists except Raphael Wong had already been serving jail time on accusations of illegal assembly cases. WATCH | The seven pro-democracy activists have been accused and plead guilty of organising and inciting other to conduct illegal assembly in the city on October 20, 2019. The ‘illegal assembly’ was attended by tens of thousands of locals who took to the streets to protest against the rising control of China on Hong Kong and the new security law imposed by China. Demonstrators were met with tear gas and water cannons which were used by the local police to disperse the crowd. “Restrictions were applied in the interests of public safety, public order and the protection of others’ rights and freedoms,” Judge Amanda Woodcock told the district court. The reaction of the police and local administration was highly criticised by international governments and groups from all over the world who saw this as a way of silencing democratic voices.

Hong Kong: 17 pro-democracy activists jailed for 16 months

China's anti-sanctions law will be implemented in some form in Hong Kong, the city's leader confirmed Tuesday, a move that will add fresh regulatory pressure on international companies in the finance hub.

Beijing's legislature passed the law in June in response to Western penalties that were imposed following crackdowns in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

Its powers include denying visas, deportation, or seizing assets of those who formulate or comply with sanctions against Chinese businesses or officials.

Foreign companies can be sued in Chinese courts for applying sanctions and the law can also be wielded against family members.

Rumours that China was planning to extend the law to Hong Kong have swirled for days ahead of next week's meeting of the Chinese legislature after state media said some unidentified new measures were being planned for Hong Kong and Macau.

On Tuesday, Hong Kong's chief executive Carrie Lam confirmed Beijing had consulted her on adding the law to the city's mini-constitution, known as the Basic Law.

"The purpose of the anti-sanctions law is to defend our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," she told reporters.

Lam said her advice had been for Hong Kong to pass its own legislation.

But she said Beijing could also impose the measures directly like it did with a sweeping national security law last year that snuffed out dissent.

"Some foreign forces, foreign governments and western media will definitely stir up this issue, hoping to weaken our status as a financial centre or the outside world's confidence in Hong Kong," she said.

"Local legislation can allow us to better clarify the law's framework and procedures and fit it better to Hong Kong's legal system."

Relations between China and major Western powers have deteriorated in recent years, squeezing companies that operate in both markets.

The United States has imposed a series of sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials, including Lam. China has responded with its own reciprocal measures.

International companies face being punished by each side if they adhere to either sanctions regime.

A bank that refuses to implement US sanctions, for example, could find itself cut off from access to the dollar. But those that adhere could find themselves in hot water with Beijing.&nbsp;

Hong Kong's new national security law makes it illegal to comply with foreign sanctions. So far prosecutors have not brought any national security cases against international companies in Hong Kong.

Expanding China's anti-sanctions law to Hong Kong would increase the suite of tools at the disposal of both prosecutors and Chinese companies to pursue international companies deemed to be complying with foreign sanctions.

China's anti-sanctions law will be implemented in some form in Hong Kong, the city's leader confirmed Tuesday, a move that will add fresh regulatory pressure on international companies in the finance hub.

China's anti-sanctions law will be implemented in some form in Hong Kong, the city's leader confirmed Tuesday, a move that will add fresh regulatory pressure on international companies in the finance hub. Beijing's legislature passed the law in June in response to Western penalties that were imposed following crackdowns in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Its powers include denying visas, deportation, or seizing assets of those who formulate or comply with sanctions against Chinese businesses or officials. Foreign companies can be sued in Chinese courts for applying sanctions and the law can also be wielded against family members. Rumours that China was planning to extend the law to Hong Kong have swirled for days ahead of next week's meeting of the Chinese legislature after state media said some unidentified new measures were being planned for Hong Kong and Macau. On Tuesday, Hong Kong's chief executive Carrie Lam confirmed Beijing had consulted her on adding the law to the city's mini-constitution, known as the Basic Law. "The purpose of the anti-sanctions law is to defend our country's sovereignty, security and development interests," she told reporters. Lam said her advice had been for Hong Kong to pass its own legislation. But she said Beijing could also impose the measures directly like it did with a sweeping national security law last year that snuffed out dissent. "Some foreign forces, foreign governments and western media will definitely stir up this issue, hoping to weaken our status as a financial centre or the outside world's confidence in Hong Kong," she said. "Local legislation can allow us to better clarify the law's framework and procedures and fit it better to Hong Kong's legal system." Relations between China and major Western powers have deteriorated in recent years, squeezing companies that operate in both markets. The United States has imposed a series of sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials, including Lam. China has responded with its own reciprocal measures. International companies face being punished by each side if they adhere to either sanctions regime. A bank that refuses to implement US sanctions, for example, could find itself cut off from access to the dollar. But those that adhere could find themselves in hot water with Beijing. Hong Kong's new national security law makes it illegal to comply with foreign sanctions. So far prosecutors have not brought any national security cases against international companies in Hong Kong. Expanding China's anti-sanctions law to Hong Kong would increase the suite of tools at the disposal of both prosecutors and Chinese companies to pursue international companies deemed to be complying with foreign sanctions.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam backs China's anti-sanctions law

On Thursday, a radio Hong Kong host went on trial under an old colonial law for sedition. This was the first time the law had been used since the city's handover to China as authorities criminalised dissent.

In the past twelve months, prosecutors have taken out this decades-old law that in the past was rarely used, and is charging activists like Tam Tak-chi, 48, with sedition.

The online talk show host, known as 'Fast Beat' is accused of eight counts of sedition for anti-government slogans he wrote or uttered between January and July of last year.

Further charges include inciting unlawful assembly and disorderly conduct.

The law under which Tam is charged differs from the national security law enacted last year in Hong Kong, which has been utilised to prosecute dissidents as well.

A first offence of sedition carries a sentence of up to two years in prison, while an offence under the national security law carries a harsh sentence of up to life in prison.

The act had not been used for decades, since the time of Hong Kong's 1997 handover and was a largely forgotten relic among the statute books of a city that had emerged as a regional centre of free speech.

The law was drafted by British colonial rulers in 1938 and has been widely criticised for being anti-free speech.

According to Hong Kong law, sedition encompasses any words that cause "hatred, contempt, and discontent" towards the government or "create discontent among the residents."

Tam's trial opened on Thursday with prosecutors reading those slogans as well as some pro-democracy speeches he made speckled with colourful Cantonese curse words.

The slogans that incited this crackdown included "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times", "Corrupt cops, all of your family go to hell", "Disband Hong Kong police, delay no more" and "Down with the Communist Party of China".

For Hong Kong, the trial is a landmark because it will establish a precedent for what political views and phrases will be deemed illegal as China attempts to suppress dissent following huge and violent protests two years ago.

Tam's trial was delayed until the verdict from the higher court was announced on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, one of the first cases under Hong Kong's new national security law resulted in the conviction of a former waiter on charges of inciting secession and terrorist activity.

In this trial, it was determined that "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our time" was secessionist and hence a national security offence.

In the current climate, with China reshaping Hong Kong into an authoritarian state, and the newly created national security police unit has led to the revival of this colonial-era sedition law.

Earlier this week, five members of a pro-democracy Hong Kong union were arrested on sedition charges. Three of them have been charged and are now in custody. The union published books about sheep to defend their village from wolves.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday, a radio Hong Kong host went on trial under an old colonial law for sedition. This was the first time the law had been used since the city's handover to China as authorities criminalised dissent.

On Thursday, a radio Hong Kong host went on trial under an old colonial law for sedition. This was the first time the law had been used since the city's handover to China as authorities criminalised dissent. In the past twelve months, prosecutors have taken out this decades-old law that in the past was rarely used, and is charging activists like Tam Tak-chi, 48, with sedition. The online talk show host, known as 'Fast Beat' is accused of eight counts of sedition for anti-government slogans he wrote or uttered between January and July of last year. Further charges include inciting unlawful assembly and disorderly conduct. The law under which Tam is charged differs from the national security law enacted last year in Hong Kong, which has been utilised to prosecute dissidents as well. A first offence of sedition carries a sentence of up to two years in prison, while an offence under the national security law carries a harsh sentence of up to life in prison. The act had not been used for decades, since the time of Hong Kong's 1997 handover and was a largely forgotten relic among the statute books of a city that had emerged as a regional centre of free speech. The law was drafted by British colonial rulers in 1938 and has been widely criticised for being anti-free speech. According to Hong Kong law, sedition encompasses any words that cause "hatred, contempt, and discontent" towards the government or "create discontent among the residents." Tam's trial opened on Thursday with prosecutors reading those slogans as well as some pro-democracy speeches he made speckled with colourful Cantonese curse words. The slogans that incited this crackdown included "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times", "Corrupt cops, all of your family go to hell", "Disband Hong Kong police, delay no more" and "Down with the Communist Party of China". For Hong Kong, the trial is a landmark because it will establish a precedent for what political views and phrases will be deemed illegal as China attempts to suppress dissent following huge and violent protests two years ago. Tam's trial was delayed until the verdict from the higher court was announced on Tuesday. On Tuesday, one of the first cases under Hong Kong's new national security law resulted in the conviction of a former waiter on charges of inciting secession and terrorist activity. In this trial, it was determined that "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our time" was secessionist and hence a national security offence. In the current climate, with China reshaping Hong Kong into an authoritarian state, and the newly created national security police unit has led to the revival of this colonial-era sedition law. Earlier this week, five members of a pro-democracy Hong Kong union were arrested on sedition charges. Three of them have been charged and are now in custody. The union published books about sheep to defend their village from wolves. (With inputs from agencies)

Host of Hong Kong radio station faces first 'sedition' trial

The first person charged under Hong Kong's National Security Law has been found guilty of terrorism and inciting secession. More than 100 people have been arrested under the law since it came into force in 2019.

Hong Kong: Man found guilty of terrorism & inciting secession under National Security Law

The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong."&nbsp;

The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.

However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs".

Watch:

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"The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

"China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added.

The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities.

US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating"&nbsp;while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on&nbsp;Hong Kong.

State Department spokesman Ned Price had said earlier that national security law continues to undermine healthy business in Hong Kong.

The latest US move comes as US Senate passed legislation to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region.

The bill known as Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act was passed unanimously and will now be tabled in the House of Representatives.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong.

The US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong." The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs". Watch: "The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. "China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added. The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities. US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating" while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on Hong Kong. State Department spokesman Ned Price had said earlier that national security law continues to undermine healthy business in Hong Kong. The latest US move comes as US Senate passed legislation to ban the import of products from China's Xinjiang region. The bill known as Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act was passed unanimously and will now be tabled in the House of Representatives. (With inputs from Agencies)

US sanctions Chinese officials, issues business advisory on Hong Kong

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law.

The newspaper published a defiant final edition on Thursday. In the final edition, it said it had been a "victim of tyranny" after 26 years of facing up to China's authoritarian leaders.

"It is a sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world," Biden said in a statement released by the White House.

"Intensifying repression by Beijing has reached such a level that Apple Daily, a much-needed bastion of independent journalism in Hong Kong, has now ceased publishing," he continued.

"Through arrests, threats, and forcing through a National Security Law that penalizes free speech, Beijing has insisted on wielding its power to suppress independent media and silence dissenting views."

The prosecution of Apple Daily was sparked by articles and columns that allegedly supported international sanctions against China, a view now deemed illegal under the new security law imposed on Hong Kong last year.

The sudden death of the popular newspaper is the latest blow to Hong Kong's freedoms, deepening unease over whether the international finance centre can remain a media hub as China seeks to stamp out dissent.

Praising the "invaluable role" that independent media plays in "resilient and prosperous societies," Biden called on Beijing to halt its crackdown on the media.

"Beijing must stop targeting the independent press and release the journalists and media executives that have been detained," he said.

"The act of journalism is not a crime."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law.

US President Joe Biden on Thursday said that closure of Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily was a "sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world". The financial hub's pro-democracy tabloid was forced to close under Hong Kong's new national security law. The newspaper published a defiant final edition on Thursday. In the final edition, it said it had been a "victim of tyranny" after 26 years of facing up to China's authoritarian leaders. "It is a sad day for media freedom in Hong Kong and around the world," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. "Intensifying repression by Beijing has reached such a level that Apple Daily, a much-needed bastion of independent journalism in Hong Kong, has now ceased publishing," he continued. "Through arrests, threats, and forcing through a National Security Law that penalizes free speech, Beijing has insisted on wielding its power to suppress independent media and silence dissenting views." The prosecution of Apple Daily was sparked by articles and columns that allegedly supported international sanctions against China, a view now deemed illegal under the new security law imposed on Hong Kong last year. The sudden death of the popular newspaper is the latest blow to Hong Kong's freedoms, deepening unease over whether the international finance centre can remain a media hub as China seeks to stamp out dissent. Praising the "invaluable role" that independent media plays in "resilient and prosperous societies," Biden called on Beijing to halt its crackdown on the media. "Beijing must stop targeting the independent press and release the journalists and media executives that have been detained," he said. "The act of journalism is not a crime." (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong tabloid Apple Daily's closure a 'sad day' for media, says Biden

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. 
 
The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong`s common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government`s claim that the slogan "Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times" is secessionist. 
 
Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. 
 
Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. 
 
Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong`s common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. 
 
On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. 
 
His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. 
 
Hong Kong`s Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city`s legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. 
 
Article 46 of the security law - drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100% - states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors` safety.

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan.

The trial of the first person charged under the national security law in Hong Kong begins on Wednesday, almost a year after he was charged with driving his motorbike into officers during a rally while carrying a flag with a protest slogan. The case of Tong Ying-kit is seen as a departure from Hong Kong`s common law traditions, as he was denied bail and a jury, and a test of the government`s claim that the slogan "Liberate Hong Kong! Revolution of our times" is secessionist. Tong, 24, was arrested on July 1, 2020, hours after the enactment of the national security law, which punishes what China deems as subversion, secessionism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison. Tong faces charges of terrorism and inciting secession, as well as an alternative charge of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, which can lead to up to seven years in prison. Tong has been denied bail. Hong Kong`s common law has traditionally allowed defendants to seek release unless prosecutors can show lawful grounds for their detention. Under the new law, the burden is now placed on the defendant to prove they will not break the law if released on bail. On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal upheld a decision to deny Tong a trial by jury, citing a threat to the personal safety of jurors and their family members. His trial will be held by a panel of three judges instead: Esther Toh, Anthea Pang and Wilson Chan. Hong Kong`s Judiciary describes trial by jury as one of the most important features of the city`s legal system, a common law tradition designed to offer defendants additional protection against the possibility of authorities overreaching their power. Article 46 of the security law - drafted by Beijing, where courts are controlled by the Communist Party and conviction rates are close to 100% - states three instances in which juries can be scrapped: protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting jurors` safety.

Trial of first person charged under Hong Kong's national security law begins

First Hong Konger to be charged under China's controversial national security law may be tried without a jury, a senior judge said on Thursday. Tong Ying-kit, a 24-year-old is accused of two crimes that involve him allegedly driving his motorbike into a group of police officers during a protest.

The possibility of his trial without a jury is cementing Hong Kong's changing legal traditions.

Hong Kong's justice secretary opted against using a jury for his upcoming trial, a decision AFP first revealed in February.

Tong challenged that decision at the High Court but lost on Thursday.

In his ruling, High Court judge Alex Lee said before the security law, a jury "was the only mode of trial then available" for such serious crimes.

"However, the same is no longer true after the enactment of the NSL (National Security Law)," he wrote.

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Trial by jury for serious criminal cases has been used by Hong Kong's common law system for 176 years. The city's own judiciary on its website describes the jury system as one of its "most important features"

But the national security law, which was penned in Beijing and imposed on Hong Kong last year, allows for cases to be tried by three specially selected judges.

"Any previous right to jury trial in the Court of First Instance, if existed, shall be abrogated in 'criminal proceedings concerning offences endangering national security'," Lee wrote.

Lower courts in Hong Kong that try less serious crimes also do not have juries, something Lee said showed there was no constitutional right for a jury in all prosecutions.

(With inputs from agencies)

First Hong Konger to be charged under China's controversial national security law may be tried without a jury, a senior judge said on Thursday. Tong Ying-kit, a 24-year-old is accused of two crimes that involve him allegedly driving his motorbike into a group of police officers during a protest.

First Hong Konger to be charged under China's controversial national security law may be tried without a jury, a senior judge said on Thursday. Tong Ying-kit, a 24-year-old is accused of two crimes that involve him allegedly driving his motorbike into a group of police officers during a protest. The possibility of his trial without a jury is cementing Hong Kong's changing legal traditions. Hong Kong's justice secretary opted against using a jury for his upcoming trial, a decision AFP first revealed in February. Tong challenged that decision at the High Court but lost on Thursday. In his ruling, High Court judge Alex Lee said before the security law, a jury "was the only mode of trial then available" for such serious crimes. "However, the same is no longer true after the enactment of the NSL (National Security Law)," he wrote. Also Read | Ageing China boosts private sector role as pensions time bomb ticks Trial by jury for serious criminal cases has been used by Hong Kong's common law system for 176 years. The city's own judiciary on its website describes the jury system as one of its "most important features" But the national security law, which was penned in Beijing and imposed on Hong Kong last year, allows for cases to be tried by three specially selected judges. "Any previous right to jury trial in the Court of First Instance, if existed, shall be abrogated in 'criminal proceedings concerning offences endangering national security'," Lee wrote. Lower courts in Hong Kong that try less serious crimes also do not have juries, something Lee said showed there was no constitutional right for a jury in all prosecutions. (With inputs from agencies)

Trial of first Hong Konger under national security law may not have a jury

A South Korean publisher's defiant move to release the memoirs of the North's founder Kim Il Sung has triggered a heated debate over Seoul's decades-old ban on Pyongyang's propaganda under national security laws.

Critics of the measure say Southerners are politically mature enough to judge such material for themselves and argue it amounts to unnecessary censorship in a vibrant democracy that is one of the most wired and educated countries in the world.

But the South remains officially at&nbsp;war with its nuclear-armed and impoverished neighbour, with legislation to match.

The national security&nbsp;law dates from 1948, before the outbreak of the Korean War, and still blocks ordinary citizens from accessing most North Korean-produced content, including its official Rodong Sinmun newspaper.

Reproducing or possessing banned pro-Pyongyang materials is punishable by up to seven years in prison.&nbsp;

Even so publisher Kim Seung-kyun in April released the North Korean founder's eight-volume memoirs, titled "With the Century", said&nbsp;he did so to promote inter-Korean reconciliation.

An anti-North civic group filed a criminal complaint, police launched an investigation and within days the country's major bookstores, who had received it via a publishers' association -- pulled it from their shelves.

It briefly remained available online for 280,000 won ($250) for the full set, but by last week it was no longer available from popular web portal Naver, while searches on local bookselling platforms Kyobo and Yes24 showed no results.

The moves triggered a debate over censorship and whether people really needed to be protected from reading the words of Kim Il&nbsp;Sung.

"South Koreans already have a high level of&nbsp;judgement," said&nbsp;Ha Tae-keung, a lawmaker from the conservative People Power Party, who was jailed under the national security law as a student activist.&nbsp;

"No one is going to be deceived by a fantasy-like memoir of Kim Il Sung&nbsp;anymore," said. "We now need to actively guarantee freedom of expression."

Personality cult&nbsp;

Kim Il Sung, the grandfather of the North's current&nbsp;leader Kim Jong Un,&nbsp;ruled the world's most reclusive country for nearly five decades until his death in 1994, with a mixture of his own brand of Stalinism and an unabashed personality&nbsp;cult.

The memoir, first published by Pyongyang in 1992 and available in around 20 languages around the world,&nbsp;portrays him as a heroic Korean guerilla leader against Japanese colonial forces, often denying and downplaying his Chinese and Soviet connections.

Researchers describe it as largely a "work of fiction" with archival Soviet evidence disproving some of its key claims, but add that it has value regardless of historical inaccuracies.

Despite its "mind-numbing prose", the book revealed Pyongyang's "propensity to falsehoods" and "cult of personality", said Sung-yoon Lee, a Korean studies professor at Tufts University in the United States.

Suzy Kim,&nbsp;a Korean history professor at&nbsp;Rutgers University, said it demonstrated how the regime in Pyongyang "traces its legitimacy to its anticolonial roots".

To this day, she added, many of the North's challenges are "often justified as sacrifices made for standing up to continued imperialist policies imposed by the Japanese and US governments".

Democracy and war

The national security law technically makes mere possession of pro-North materials punishable by up to seven years in prison, while visiting the country without government permission has a maximum 10 year sentence.

The United Nations has said&nbsp;the act poses a "seriously problematic" challenge to freedom of expression in the South, and the US State department regularly criticises it in its annual human rights reports.&nbsp;

Thousands were imprisoned under the legislation by the authoritarian military governments that ruled the South for decades, often accused of engaging in pro-Pyongyang activities or spying for the North.

Publisher Kim -- who originally obtained the text several years ago for a government-authorised restricted distribution to research institutions --&nbsp;said he had no intention of benefitting Pyongyang.

Releasing the text was "a way to love my country" by promoting inter-Korean understanding, the 82-year-old said&nbsp;at his home in Goyang.

"If that is deemed a crime, I am willing to be punished."

Police confirmed&nbsp;that their investigation into whether Kim had violated the national security law was continuing.

New Paradigm of Korea, the group that filed the complaint, insisted that the general public was susceptible to "totalitarian propaganda manipulation".

Allowing the book's distribution would be "comparable to handing a nuclear bag to the enemy on a spiritual level", it added.

But Professor Lee said: "Let the publisher and consumer act freely and allow the market, including the market of ideas, determine the book's fate.

"The freedom of speech, even false and outrageous speech that beautifies the despicable, should be protected in a genuine democracy."

(With inputs from agencies)

A South Korean publisher's defiant move to release the memoirs of the North's founder Kim Il Sung has triggered a heated debate over Seoul's decades-old ban on Pyongyang's propaganda under national security laws.

A South Korean publisher's defiant move to release the memoirs of the North's founder Kim Il Sung has triggered a heated debate over Seoul's decades-old ban on Pyongyang's propaganda under national security laws. Critics of the measure say Southerners are politically mature enough to judge such material for themselves and argue it amounts to unnecessary censorship in a vibrant democracy that is one of the most wired and educated countries in the world. But the South remains officially at war with its nuclear-armed and impoverished neighbour, with legislation to match. The national security law dates from 1948, before the outbreak of the Korean War, and still blocks ordinary citizens from accessing most North Korean-produced content, including its official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. Reproducing or possessing banned pro-Pyongyang materials is punishable by up to seven years in prison. Even so publisher Kim Seung-kyun in April released the North Korean founder's eight-volume memoirs, titled "With the Century", said he did so to promote inter-Korean reconciliation. An anti-North civic group filed a criminal complaint, police launched an investigation and within days the country's major bookstores, who had received it via a publishers' association -- pulled it from their shelves. It briefly remained available online for 280,000 won ($250) for the full set, but by last week it was no longer available from popular web portal Naver, while searches on local bookselling platforms Kyobo and Yes24 showed no results. The moves triggered a debate over censorship and whether people really needed to be protected from reading the words of Kim Il Sung. "South Koreans already have a high level of judgement," said Ha Tae-keung, a lawmaker from the conservative People Power Party, who was jailed under the national security law as a student activist. "No one is going to be deceived by a fantasy-like memoir of Kim Il Sung anymore," said. "We now need to actively guarantee freedom of expression." Personality cult Kim Il Sung, the grandfather of the North's current leader Kim Jong Un, ruled the world's most reclusive country for nearly five decades until his death in 1994, with a mixture of his own brand of Stalinism and an unabashed personality cult. The memoir, first published by Pyongyang in 1992 and available in around 20 languages around the world, portrays him as a heroic Korean guerilla leader against Japanese colonial forces, often denying and downplaying his Chinese and Soviet connections. Researchers describe it as largely a "work of fiction" with archival Soviet evidence disproving some of its key claims, but add that it has value regardless of historical inaccuracies. Despite its "mind-numbing prose", the book revealed Pyongyang's "propensity to falsehoods" and "cult of personality", said Sung-yoon Lee, a Korean studies professor at Tufts University in the United States. Suzy Kim, a Korean history professor at Rutgers University, said it demonstrated how the regime in Pyongyang "traces its legitimacy to its anticolonial roots". To this day, she added, many of the North's challenges are "often justified as sacrifices made for standing up to continued imperialist policies imposed by the Japanese and US governments". Democracy and war The national security law technically makes mere possession of pro-North materials punishable by up to seven years in prison, while visiting the country without government permission has a maximum 10 year sentence. The United Nations has said the act poses a "seriously problematic" challenge to freedom of expression in the South, and the US State department regularly criticises it in its annual human rights reports. Thousands were imprisoned under the legislation by the authoritarian military governments that ruled the South for decades, often accused of engaging in pro-Pyongyang activities or spying for the North. Publisher Kim -- who originally obtained the text several years ago for a government-authorised restricted distribution to research institutions -- said he had no intention of benefitting Pyongyang. Releasing the text was "a way to love my country" by promoting inter-Korean understanding, the 82-year-old said at his home in Goyang. "If that is deemed a crime, I am willing to be punished." Police confirmed that their investigation into whether Kim had violated the national security law was continuing. New Paradigm of Korea, the group that filed the complaint, insisted that the general public was susceptible to "totalitarian propaganda manipulation". Allowing the book's distribution would be "comparable to handing a nuclear bag to the enemy on a spiritual level", it added. But Professor Lee said: "Let the publisher and consumer act freely and allow the market, including the market of ideas, determine the book's fate. "The freedom of speech, even false and outrageous speech that beautifies the despicable, should be protected in a genuine democracy." (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean founder Kim Il Sung's memoir triggers censorship debate in Seoul

Two Hong Kong-based Marxists, who first fought imperialist Britain and then China's authoritarian rule and described marriage as an unnecessary institution, have finally tied the knot after being together for 45 years.

Chan Po-ying and Leung Kwok-hung, both 63-year-olds, are two of the most prominent leaders of Hong Kong's left.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="wionews.com/world/hong-kong-court-rules-that-journalist-improperly-accessed-public-records-379244">Hong Kong court rules that journalist improperly accessed public records</a>

They decided to marry after Beijing increased its crackdown against Hong Kong's dissidents and came for Leung.&nbsp;

Leung, who has served various short sentences of prison for his activism, last week was part of 18 others who have been sentenced to 18 months for holding an "unlawful protest".

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/canadas-immigration-programme-for-hong-kongers-received-500-applications-in-3-weeks-378101">Canada's immigration programme for Hong Kongers received 500 applications in 3 weeks</a>

However, the national security law which was approved by China last and has the provision of a life sentence, the couple decided to marry.&nbsp;

"We never thought we needed to get married until long-term imprisonment came right in our faces," Chan, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

"It was the national security law that propelled us to make up our mind."&nbsp;

They said that marriage would allow them to visit courts and prison more frequently in case of a longer sentence.&nbsp;

The couple could only spend 40 days as newlyweds when Leung was arrested.&nbsp;

Two Hong Kong-based Marxists, who first fought imperialist Britain and then China's authoritarian rule and described marriage as an unnecessary institution, have finally tied the knot after being together for 45 years.

Two Hong Kong-based Marxists, who first fought imperialist Britain and then China's authoritarian rule and described marriage as an unnecessary institution, have finally tied the knot after being together for 45 years. Chan Po-ying and Leung Kwok-hung, both 63-year-olds, are two of the most prominent leaders of Hong Kong's left. Also read | Hong Kong court rules that journalist improperly accessed public records They decided to marry after Beijing increased its crackdown against Hong Kong's dissidents and came for Leung. Leung, who has served various short sentences of prison for his activism, last week was part of 18 others who have been sentenced to 18 months for holding an "unlawful protest". Also read | Canada's immigration programme for Hong Kongers received 500 applications in 3 weeks However, the national security law which was approved by China last and has the provision of a life sentence, the couple decided to marry. "We never thought we needed to get married until long-term imprisonment came right in our faces," Chan, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. "It was the national security law that propelled us to make up our mind." They said that marriage would allow them to visit courts and prison more frequently in case of a longer sentence. The couple could only spend 40 days as newlyweds when Leung was arrested.

Hong Kong: Security law forces activist couple in their 60s to get married

China's parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly voted to approve changes to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-releases-one-hong-kong-activist-on-bail-in-case-involving-47-369585">Hong Kong's</a> electoral system including plans to grant Beijing veto powers over candidates.

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Reports said China's National People's Congress voted 2,895 in favour of the decision to empower its standing committee to draft the amendments to Annex I and II of Hong Kong's Basic Law with one vote against and no absentations.

Britain had earlier condemned the proposed changes to Hong Kong's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-needs-electoral-reform-for-brighter-future-says-china-368640">electoral system</a> asserting that it would be a "further attack on Hong Kong's rights and freedoms".

The UK had returned Hong Kong to China in 1997 with China promising to implement one country, two systems policy.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said: "We will follow the principle of one country, two systems and implement the legal system for the security of people."

The city was hit with large scale protests in 2019 over democratic freedom as China imposed the national security law in June 2020 as authorities made several arrests amid large scale violence.

China's parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly voted to approve changes to Hong Kong's electoral system including plans to grant Beijing veto powers over candidates.

China's parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly voted to approve changes to Hong Kong's electoral system including plans to grant Beijing veto powers over candidates. Watch: Reports said China's National People's Congress voted 2,895 in favour of the decision to empower its standing committee to draft the amendments to Annex I and II of Hong Kong's Basic Law with one vote against and no absentations. Britain had earlier condemned the proposed changes to Hong Kong's electoral system asserting that it would be a "further attack on Hong Kong's rights and freedoms". The UK had returned Hong Kong to China in 1997 with China promising to implement one country, two systems policy. However, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said: "We will follow the principle of one country, two systems and implement the legal system for the security of people." The city was hit with large scale protests in 2019 over democratic freedom as China imposed the national security law in June 2020 as authorities made several arrests amid large scale violence.

China overhauls Hong Kong's electoral system, grants itself veto powers over candidates

China has laid out a draft of reforms that are being discussed in the biggest political meeting of the year. The three terms that form the basic structure of the politics of Hong Kong have not been mentioned in the new draft.

China removes Hong Kong's fundamental structure from new draft

After a four-day hearing, a Hong Kong court ruled that 47 pro-democracy advocates accused of subversion under a national security law must remain in custody.

Hong Kong court rules after 47 Pro-Democracy activists detained

'For democracy': Hong Kong comes out in support of detained democracy activists

A few hours after Hong Kong authorities made mass arrests of several dozens of Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners, the US has voiced its concern over the matter.

On Sunday, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the immediate release of the Hong Kong dissidents who have been detained under the controversial national security law, which was imposed by China last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-hong-kong-democrats-charged-under-national-security-law-366752">Dozens of Hong Kong democrats charged under national security law</a>

"We condemn the detention of and charges filed against pan-democratic candidates in Hong Kong's elections and call for their immediate release," Blinken tweeted.

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We condemn the detention of and charges filed against pan-democratic candidates in Hong Kong's elections and call for their immediate release. Political participation and freedom of expression should not be crimes. The U.S. stands with the people of Hong Kong.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1366203489119068168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Political participation and freedom of expression should not be crimes. The US stands with the people of Hong Kong."

The statement has come after the Hong Kong officials charged nearly 47 pro-democracy activists with 'conspiracy to commit subversion', in what is being termed as the largest national security operation since the law was passed in June 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-denied-bail-due-to-risk-of-committing-further-offences-365659">Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail due to risk of 'committing further offences'</a>

Among the arrested activists, other names such as Benny Tai, co-organiser of the of an unofficial primary election held last summer, John Clancey, a US citizen and human rights lawyer, a group of younger “resistance camp” democratic activists including Lester Shum, Sam Cheung, Ventus Lau and Fergus Leung were summoned to the local police stations.

The democrats have denounced these mass arrests as political persecution for a 'peaceful' poll that saw nearly 600,000 votes.

"Democracy is never a gift from heaven. It must be earned by many with strong will," Jimmy Sham, a key organiser of 2019's huge protests, told reporters outside a police station. "We can tell the whole world, under the most painful system, Hong Kongers are the light of the city. We will remain strong and fight for what we want."

A few hours after Hong Kong authorities made mass arrests of several dozens of Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners, the US has voiced its concern over the matter.

A few hours after Hong Kong authorities made mass arrests of several dozens of Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners, the US has voiced its concern over the matter. On Sunday, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the immediate release of the Hong Kong dissidents who have been detained under the controversial national security law, which was imposed by China last year. Also read | Dozens of Hong Kong democrats charged under national security law "We condemn the detention of and charges filed against pan-democratic candidates in Hong Kong's elections and call for their immediate release," Blinken tweeted. We condemn the detention of and charges filed against pan-democratic candidates in Hong Kong's elections and call for their immediate release. Political participation and freedom of expression should not be crimes. The U.S. stands with the people of Hong Kong. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) March 1, 2021 × "Political participation and freedom of expression should not be crimes. The US stands with the people of Hong Kong." The statement has come after the Hong Kong officials charged nearly 47 pro-democracy activists with 'conspiracy to commit subversion', in what is being termed as the largest national security operation since the law was passed in June 2020. Also read | Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail due to risk of 'committing further offences' Among the arrested activists, other names such as Benny Tai, co-organiser of the of an unofficial primary election held last summer, John Clancey, a US citizen and human rights lawyer, a group of younger “resistance camp” democratic activists including Lester Shum, Sam Cheung, Ventus Lau and Fergus Leung were summoned to the local police stations. The democrats have denounced these mass arrests as political persecution for a 'peaceful' poll that saw nearly 600,000 votes. "Democracy is never a gift from heaven. It must be earned by many with strong will," Jimmy Sham, a key organiser of 2019's huge protests, told reporters outside a police station. "We can tell the whole world, under the most painful system, Hong Kongers are the light of the city. We will remain strong and fight for what we want."

US calls for 'immediate release' of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists

In another crackdown of pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong, several dozen democrats have been charged with security crimes minutes after they were&nbsp;due to report to local police stations across the city on Sunday, as per local statements.

The democrats have been charged for violating the controversial national security law which was recently imposed by China in Hong Kong. "Police this afternoon laid a charge against 47 persons... with one count of 'conspiracy to commit subversion',"&nbsp;the city's police force said in a statement.

Nearly 50 democrats were asked to report to local police stations across the city for what is being termed as the largest national security operation since the law was passed in June 2020.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-media-tycoon-jimmy-lai-denied-bail-due-to-risk-of-committing-further-offences-365659">Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail due to risk of 'committing further offences'</a>

"Democracy is never a gift from heaven. It must be earned by many with strong will,"&nbsp;Jimmy Sham, a key organiser of 2019's huge protests, told reporters outside a police station. "We can tell the whole world, under the most painful system, Hong Kongers are the light of the city. We will remain strong and fight for what we want."

The majority of these democrats were detained along with Benny Tai, one of the main organisers of an unofficial primary election held last summer.

All democrats, along with Tai, were detained, questioned and their mobile phones and laptops were confiscated at the time. However, the activists were released pending further investigation.

"My chance of bail won’t be too great," Tai wrote in a social media post hours before he is due at the police station. He has been accused by China of organising and participating in an unofficial "primary election" in July 2020, which aimed at selecting the strongest candidates for a legislative council election.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-begins-coronavirus-vaccination-with-chinas-sinovac-366339">Hong Kong begins coronavirus vaccination with China's Sinovac</a>

Along with Tai, John Clancey, a US citizen and human rights lawyer, a group of younger “resistance camp” democratic activists including Lester Shum, Sam Cheung, Ventus Lau and Fergus Leung have also been summoned to the local police stations.

The democrats have denounced these mass arrests as political persecution for a 'peaceful' poll that saw nearly 600,000 votes.

As of now, 99 people have been arrested on suspicion of violations of the security laws, the Hong Kong police reported. Of these, some have been denied bail — one of the known names being the entrepreneur and activist Jimmy Lai.

In another crackdown of pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong, several dozen democrats have been charged with security crimes minutes after they were due to report to local police stations across the city on Sunday, as per local statements.

In another crackdown of pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong, several dozen democrats have been charged with security crimes minutes after they were due to report to local police stations across the city on Sunday, as per local statements. The democrats have been charged for violating the controversial national security law which was recently imposed by China in Hong Kong. "Police this afternoon laid a charge against 47 persons... with one count of 'conspiracy to commit subversion'," the city's police force said in a statement. Nearly 50 democrats were asked to report to local police stations across the city for what is being termed as the largest national security operation since the law was passed in June 2020. Also read| Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail due to risk of 'committing further offences' "Democracy is never a gift from heaven. It must be earned by many with strong will," Jimmy Sham, a key organiser of 2019's huge protests, told reporters outside a police station. "We can tell the whole world, under the most painful system, Hong Kongers are the light of the city. We will remain strong and fight for what we want." The majority of these democrats were detained along with Benny Tai, one of the main organisers of an unofficial primary election held last summer. All democrats, along with Tai, were detained, questioned and their mobile phones and laptops were confiscated at the time. However, the activists were released pending further investigation. "My chance of bail won’t be too great," Tai wrote in a social media post hours before he is due at the police station. He has been accused by China of organising and participating in an unofficial "primary election" in July 2020, which aimed at selecting the strongest candidates for a legislative council election. Also read| Hong Kong begins coronavirus vaccination with China's Sinovac Along with Tai, John Clancey, a US citizen and human rights lawyer, a group of younger “resistance camp” democratic activists including Lester Shum, Sam Cheung, Ventus Lau and Fergus Leung have also been summoned to the local police stations. The democrats have denounced these mass arrests as political persecution for a 'peaceful' poll that saw nearly 600,000 votes. As of now, 99 people have been arrested on suspicion of violations of the security laws, the Hong Kong police reported. Of these, some have been denied bail — one of the known names being the entrepreneur and activist Jimmy Lai.

Dozens of Hong Kong democrats charged under national security law

After imposing the National Security Law in Hong Kong China now wants to control HK's electoral system and processes. A top Beijing official has signalled China-led electoral reforms for Hong Kong to ensure only patriots hold power.

WION Fineprint: Beijing plans to control Hong Kong's legislature

Hong Kong's pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been denied bail by Hong Kong's top court in a national security case.

Hong Kong top court denied Jimmy Lai's bail plea

Hong Kong's media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been denied bail in a National Security case. The anti-China activist had been in custody since December 3, except for when he was released on bail for about a week late last year.

News Alert: Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail in National Security case

Hong Kong has decided against using a jury for the first trial under a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing, a report has said.

According to AFP, Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng informed the defendant's legal team in early February, citing "the personal safety of jurors and their family members".

The jury will reportedly be replaced by a panel of three judges who have been appointed to try national security cases.

Trial by jury has been used by Hong Kong's common law legal system for 176 years and is described by the city's own justice department as one of the judiciary's "most important features". But the new national security law allows for trials to be heard by dedicated national security judges in some circumstances.

The first person to face trial is Tong Ying-kit, a 23-year old man arrested the day after the law came in to effect for allegedly driving his motorbike into a crowd of police officers while flying a protest flag. He is charged with terrorism and inciting secession -- two new national security crimes -- and faces up to life in prison if convicted. He is currently on remand.

His case is being handled by the High Court's Court of First Instance, where trials are usually heard by a judge alongside seven to nine jurors.

Hong Kong's internationally respected legal system has come under sustained pressure in the politically charged wake of 2019's huge pro-democracy protests and Beijing's subsequent crackdown.

The national security law imposed by Beijing has silenced dissent and dented the legal firewall between the business hub and the mainland.

According to the legal source, the Secretary for Justice invoked Article 46 of the national security law, which states three instances where juries can be scrapped for national security crimes.&nbsp;They are protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting the personal safety of jurors and their families.

Hong Kong's Bar Association had previously raised concerns about that provision.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP)

Hong Kong has decided against using a jury for the first trial under a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing, a report has said. According to AFP, Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng informed the defendant's legal team in early February, citing "the personal safety of jurors and their family members".

Hong Kong has decided against using a jury for the first trial under a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing, a report has said. According to AFP, Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng informed the defendant's legal team in early February, citing "the personal safety of jurors and their family members". The jury will reportedly be replaced by a panel of three judges who have been appointed to try national security cases. Trial by jury has been used by Hong Kong's common law legal system for 176 years and is described by the city's own justice department as one of the judiciary's "most important features". But the new national security law allows for trials to be heard by dedicated national security judges in some circumstances. The first person to face trial is Tong Ying-kit, a 23-year old man arrested the day after the law came in to effect for allegedly driving his motorbike into a crowd of police officers while flying a protest flag. He is charged with terrorism and inciting secession -- two new national security crimes -- and faces up to life in prison if convicted. He is currently on remand. His case is being handled by the High Court's Court of First Instance, where trials are usually heard by a judge alongside seven to nine jurors. Hong Kong's internationally respected legal system has come under sustained pressure in the politically charged wake of 2019's huge pro-democracy protests and Beijing's subsequent crackdown. The national security law imposed by Beijing has silenced dissent and dented the legal firewall between the business hub and the mainland. According to the legal source, the Secretary for Justice invoked Article 46 of the national security law, which states three instances where juries can be scrapped for national security crimes. They are protecting state secrets, cases involving foreign forces and protecting the personal safety of jurors and their families. Hong Kong's Bar Association had previously raised concerns about that provision. (with inputs from AFP)

No jury for Hong Kong's first national security trial, report says

In a decision that may start a debate, Hong Kong has released controversial guidelines for schools. These guidelines include teaching students as young as six about colluding with foreign forces and subversion as part of new national security curriculum.

The Education Bureau's guidelines, released late on Thursday, show that Beijing's plans for semi-autonomous Hong Kong go beyond quashing dissent and aim for a societal overhaul to bring its most restive city more in line with the Communist Party-ruled mainland.

"National security is of great importance. Teachers should not treat it as if it is a controversial issue for discussion as usual," the guidelines said.

National security law was imposed on Hong Kong by China in June 2020. The development came after months of anti-government and anti-China protests in 2019.

The education guidelines said that teachers should "clearly point out that safeguarding national security is the responsibility of all nationals and that as far as national security is concerned, there is no room for debate or compromise"

After the 2019 protests in which many of the demonstrators were teenagers, Chinese leaders turned to re-education in a bid to tame the city's youth and make them citizens loyal to China.

Children in primary schools will learn how to sing and respect the national anthem, learn about police and the People's Liberation Army as protectors of Hong Kong, as well as about the four main offences in the security law, including terrorism and secessionism.

In secondary schools, pupils will learn what constitutes the four main offences, which can carry sentences of up to life in prison.

Some legal scholars have said the law's language is broad and vague, and the range of activities authorities might see as potential threats to national security was unclear and fluid.

An educational cartoon video released by the government shows an owl wearing glasses and a graduation hat explaining Hong Kong's institutional architecture, its duties to the central government in Beijing and the national security law.

At one point the video says "national security affairs are of utmost importance to the whole country," while showing smiling faces of a student, a chef and an engineer.

(With AFP inputs)

In a decision that may start a debate, Hong Kong has released controversial guidelines for schools. These guidelines include teaching students as young as six about colluding with foreign forces and subversion as part of new national security curriculum.

In a decision that may start a debate, Hong Kong has released controversial guidelines for schools. These guidelines include teaching students as young as six about colluding with foreign forces and subversion as part of new national security curriculum. The Education Bureau's guidelines, released late on Thursday, show that Beijing's plans for semi-autonomous Hong Kong go beyond quashing dissent and aim for a societal overhaul to bring its most restive city more in line with the Communist Party-ruled mainland. "National security is of great importance. Teachers should not treat it as if it is a controversial issue for discussion as usual," the guidelines said. National security law was imposed on Hong Kong by China in June 2020. The development came after months of anti-government and anti-China protests in 2019. The education guidelines said that teachers should "clearly point out that safeguarding national security is the responsibility of all nationals and that as far as national security is concerned, there is no room for debate or compromise" After the 2019 protests in which many of the demonstrators were teenagers, Chinese leaders turned to re-education in a bid to tame the city's youth and make them citizens loyal to China. Children in primary schools will learn how to sing and respect the national anthem, learn about police and the People's Liberation Army as protectors of Hong Kong, as well as about the four main offences in the security law, including terrorism and secessionism. In secondary schools, pupils will learn what constitutes the four main offences, which can carry sentences of up to life in prison. Some legal scholars have said the law's language is broad and vague, and the range of activities authorities might see as potential threats to national security was unclear and fluid. An educational cartoon video released by the government shows an owl wearing glasses and a graduation hat explaining Hong Kong's institutional architecture, its duties to the central government in Beijing and the national security law. At one point the video says "national security affairs are of utmost importance to the whole country," while showing smiling faces of a student, a chef and an engineer. (With AFP inputs)

Hong Kong releases national security guidelines for schoolkids

After the UK announced the launch of a new visa scheme potentially benefiting millions of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-interference-by-eu-lawmakers-on-hong-kong-358574">Hong Kongers</a>, China said it will "no longer recognise" the British national (overseas) passport.

Watch:

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"From January 31, China will no longer recognise the so-called BNO passport as a travel document and ID document, and reserves the right to take further actions," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

According to the British government, starting January 31, &nbsp;holders of British national overseas status will be able to apply to live and work in the UK for up to five years and they can eventually seek a UK citizenship.

The new visa path opens up entry to the UK to an estimated 2.9 million adults in Hong Kong and their dependents who number nearly 2.3 million.

According to the British government, starting January 31, &nbsp;holders of British national overseas status will be able to apply to live and work in the UK for up to five years and they can eventually seek a UK citizenship.

The new visa path opens up entry to the UK to an estimated 2.9 million adults in Hong Kong and their dependents who number nearly 2.3 million. The BN(O) is a special status created under British law in 1987 that relates to Hong Kong.

"The UK is trying to turn large numbers of Hong Kong residents into second-class UK citizens... and has already completely changed the nature of the BNO," the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

The Boris Johnson government has said it is acting in response to a national security law imposed by China in June last year on Hong Kong which has targeted the anti-government protests and shredded freedom meant to last 50 years under the 1997 handover accord between the UK and China agreed upon in 1997 when the British handed over Hong Kong to China under the "one country, two systems" rule.

After the UK announced the launch of a new visa scheme potentially benefiting millions of Hong Kongers, China said it will "no longer recognise" the British national (overseas) passport.

After the UK announced the launch of a new visa scheme potentially benefiting millions of Hong Kongers, China said it will "no longer recognise" the British national (overseas) passport. Watch: "From January 31, China will no longer recognise the so-called BNO passport as a travel document and ID document, and reserves the right to take further actions," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. According to the British government, starting January 31, holders of British national overseas status will be able to apply to live and work in the UK for up to five years and they can eventually seek a UK citizenship. The new visa path opens up entry to the UK to an estimated 2.9 million adults in Hong Kong and their dependents who number nearly 2.3 million. According to the British government, starting January 31, holders of British national overseas status will be able to apply to live and work in the UK for up to five years and they can eventually seek a UK citizenship. The new visa path opens up entry to the UK to an estimated 2.9 million adults in Hong Kong and their dependents who number nearly 2.3 million. The BN(O) is a special status created under British law in 1987 that relates to Hong Kong. "The UK is trying to turn large numbers of Hong Kong residents into second-class UK citizens... and has already completely changed the nature of the BNO," the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman asserted. The Boris Johnson government has said it is acting in response to a national security law imposed by China in June last year on Hong Kong which has targeted the anti-government protests and shredded freedom meant to last 50 years under the 1997 handover accord between the UK and China agreed upon in 1997 when the British handed over Hong Kong to China under the "one country, two systems" rule.

Will no longer recognise UK's BNO passport for Hong Kongers: China

They are businessmen, born in mainland China, who serve on top advisory committees to Beijing and profess patriotism for the motherland. One recently traveled to an obscure village in southeastern China to study Xi Jinping’s doctrine for guiding the country to greatness.

Now, they are seeking to bring that ardor to Hong Kong, as the founders of the city’s newest political party. They are calling for social stability to unify a deeply fractured society and mend a damaged economy.

“You cannot have a protest every day,” said Li Shan, founder and chairman of the party.

The arrival of the Bauhinia Party has fueled furious speculation about the future of Hong Kong’s once-vibrant, at times unruly, political scene. The party, led by business executives who moved to Hong Kong from the mainland, is entering the fray amid forceful moves by the Chinese government to quash dissent, after huge pro-democracy protests in 2019 challenged its rule.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-blocks-popular-pro-democracy-website-hkchronicles-356946">Hong Kong blocks popular pro-democracy website HKChronicles</a>

Already, authorities have ejected opposition lawmakers from the Hong Kong legislature and disqualified and arrested would-be candidates. Many in the pro-democracy camp see the new party as yet another sign that Hong Kong — a former British colony that was promised 50 years of semi-autonomy when it returned to China in 1997 — is becoming just another mainland city.

But the news was equally, if not more, unsettling for Hong Kong’s pro-Beijing bloc, the coalition of local business tycoons, established politicians and trade unions that has long been allowed to govern as the central government’s proxy. Many have wondered if the emergence of the new party is Beijing’s signal that it has less use for those traditional power brokers and may replace them with figures deemed more effective or trustworthy.

While the pro-Beijing camp has always professed loyalty to the central government, its members have taken care to emphasize the differences between their city and the mainland.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-strained-us-ties-xi-jinping-writes-to-former-starbucks-chairman-356731">&nbsp;Amid strained US ties, Xi Jinping writes to former Starbucks chairman</a>

The Bauhinia Party appears to be offering itself to Beijing as a new model for allies, ones who are more overt about their ties to the central government and their admiration for its top-down approach.

Li is a delegate to the national Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, an advisory body to Beijing, and speaks hardly any Cantonese, Hong Kong’s local language. Another co-founder, Chen Jianwen, is a delegate to a regional arm of the advisory body and leads an association for alumni of a training academy for Communist Party officials.

Central planks of the party’s platform include combating discrimination against mainland transplants to Hong Kong and fostering a love of Chinese language and culture. Li said he wants to encourage more Hong Kong students to study at mainland universities and undergo “patriotic education,” an echo of Xi’s own calls for young Hong Kongers to “increase their sense of belonging to the motherland.”

Even the way Li established the party nodded to the central government. He officially founded it aboard a cruise ship in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor, a reference to Mao Zedong’s founding of the Chinese Communist Party aboard a boat in eastern China, according to party lore.

Perceived allegiance to Beijing could be the most important factor for securing the central authorities’ blessing in the coming years, said Willy Lam, a professor of Chinese politics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-plans-further-hong-kong-crackdown-after-mass-arrest-sources-356229">China plans further Hong Kong crackdown after mass arrest: Sources</a>

If more people with mainland backgrounds participated in Hong Kong politics, Beijing could “rest assured” that the city would be led by those who “would presumably be more loyal to the motherland,” he added.

The Bauhinia Party’s founders deny that they are puppets of Beijing or that they seek to supplant existing parties. Li said the party is focused on the selection of the city’s chief executive, not on winning legislative seats.

The chief executive is chosen by a committee of just 1,200 electors, many with close ties to Beijing.

While Li said he was not planning to run in next year’s chief executive race, he hinted repeatedly that he was interested in the job someday.

“If the community requires me to devote myself for such a job or responsibility, I’m willing to sacrifice myself,” he said in an interview in Beijing last month.

Li said he did not tell the central or Hong Kong authorities that he was starting a party until after he had done so. Then he notified Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, and the Central Liaison Office, Beijing’s official arm in Hong Kong.

He bristled at suggestions that he was an outsider. “I have been a permanent resident for 20 years,” said Li, a financier who moved to Hong Kong in 1993 after completing a doctorate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The co-founders say they want to reach opponents of the government as well as supporters.

In its stated principles, the party professes a commitment to universal suffrage — a central demand of the pro-democracy camp — and a promise to make Hong Kong “one of the world’s most free, democratic and open” cities. Li said he wants to preserve the structure of “one country, two systems,” for an additional 50 years.

But the pro-democracy camp has dismissed those overtures as lip service. An editorial in Apple Daily, a fervently pro-democracy newspaper, called the party a “Trojan horse” that would allow the Communist Party to operate openly in Hong Kong. Lo Kin-hei, chairman of the Democratic Party, wrote on Twitter that it was the “Hong Kong branch” of the Communist Party.

The pro-Beijing camp has been equally hostile. Many have sneered at the Bauhinia Party’s stated goal of attracting 250,000 members, about five times more than the largest pro-Beijing party in Hong Kong has. Li said on Friday that the party had fewer than 100 members so far.

“It is easy to start a party, but it is not that easy to establish your party as a viable political force,” said Jasper Tsang, founder of that largest party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong.

Tsang dismissed the idea that the Bauhinia Party had Beijing’s backing or that Li could become chief executive. He pointed out that Hong Kong’s two major state-backed newspapers had paid little attention to the new party, which he said suggested a lack of official support.

Regina Ip, the founder of another pro-Beijing party, said Li had approached her about possible collaboration and that she was “not in any way interested.”

“I don’t think he begins to understand how complex the job is,” she said of Li’s hints about running for chief executive. “If you have some financial credentials, it doesn’t mean you are qualified.”

Li acknowledged that he was not fluent in Hong Kong politics, despite his long residence in the city. He said he had never voted until late 2019. Asked about his position on a contentious proposal to allow Hong Kong residents living in mainland China to vote in the city’s elections, he said he had not heard of the issue.

Some have been more amenable to the Bauhinia Party.

Christine Loh, a former pro-democracy lawmaker who also worked in the administration of a pro-Beijing chief executive, said she did not know much about the new party. But she said that Hong Kongers should be more open to political figures more aligned with the mainland system.

“It isn’t that it’s going to be extended to Hong Kong, but it’s not totally unconnected,” she said of the mainland system. It is possible, she said, that people with ties to it might be able to help Hong Kong.

While Li insists that he did not consult any Chinese officials before establishing his party, he acknowledged discussing some of its proposals with officials since then.

Last month, he visited a museum in Xiadang, a village where Xi worked as a young Communist Party cadre in the 1980s. Li said he wanted to learn more about the early development of “Xi Jinping Thought,” Xi’s ideological manifesto.

Another co-founder, Wong Chau-chi, demurred in an interview with The South China Morning Post when asked whether Bauhinia Party members were secretly Communist Party members.

“It’s not correct to judge our party on whether we have underground members or not,” he said. “It’s something not relevant to our governance.”

They are businessmen, born in mainland China, who serve on top advisory committees to Beijing and profess patriotism for the motherland. One recently traveled to an obscure village in southeastern China to study Xi Jinping’s doctrine for guiding the country to greatness.

They are businessmen, born in mainland China, who serve on top advisory committees to Beijing and profess patriotism for the motherland. One recently traveled to an obscure village in southeastern China to study Xi Jinping’s doctrine for guiding the country to greatness. Now, they are seeking to bring that ardor to Hong Kong, as the founders of the city’s newest political party. They are calling for social stability to unify a deeply fractured society and mend a damaged economy. “You cannot have a protest every day,” said Li Shan, founder and chairman of the party. The arrival of the Bauhinia Party has fueled furious speculation about the future of Hong Kong’s once-vibrant, at times unruly, political scene. The party, led by business executives who moved to Hong Kong from the mainland, is entering the fray amid forceful moves by the Chinese government to quash dissent, after huge pro-democracy protests in 2019 challenged its rule. Also read| Hong Kong blocks popular pro-democracy website HKChronicles Already, authorities have ejected opposition lawmakers from the Hong Kong legislature and disqualified and arrested would-be candidates. Many in the pro-democracy camp see the new party as yet another sign that Hong Kong — a former British colony that was promised 50 years of semi-autonomy when it returned to China in 1997 — is becoming just another mainland city. But the news was equally, if not more, unsettling for Hong Kong’s pro-Beijing bloc, the coalition of local business tycoons, established politicians and trade unions that has long been allowed to govern as the central government’s proxy. Many have wondered if the emergence of the new party is Beijing’s signal that it has less use for those traditional power brokers and may replace them with figures deemed more effective or trustworthy. While the pro-Beijing camp has always professed loyalty to the central government, its members have taken care to emphasize the differences between their city and the mainland. Also read| Amid strained US ties, Xi Jinping writes to former Starbucks chairman The Bauhinia Party appears to be offering itself to Beijing as a new model for allies, ones who are more overt about their ties to the central government and their admiration for its top-down approach. Li is a delegate to the national Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, an advisory body to Beijing, and speaks hardly any Cantonese, Hong Kong’s local language. Another co-founder, Chen Jianwen, is a delegate to a regional arm of the advisory body and leads an association for alumni of a training academy for Communist Party officials. Central planks of the party’s platform include combating discrimination against mainland transplants to Hong Kong and fostering a love of Chinese language and culture. Li said he wants to encourage more Hong Kong students to study at mainland universities and undergo “patriotic education,” an echo of Xi’s own calls for young Hong Kongers to “increase their sense of belonging to the motherland.” Even the way Li established the party nodded to the central government. He officially founded it aboard a cruise ship in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor, a reference to Mao Zedong’s founding of the Chinese Communist Party aboard a boat in eastern China, according to party lore. Perceived allegiance to Beijing could be the most important factor for securing the central authorities’ blessing in the coming years, said Willy Lam, a professor of Chinese politics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Also read| China plans further Hong Kong crackdown after mass arrest: Sources If more people with mainland backgrounds participated in Hong Kong politics, Beijing could “rest assured” that the city would be led by those who “would presumably be more loyal to the motherland,” he added. The Bauhinia Party’s founders deny that they are puppets of Beijing or that they seek to supplant existing parties. Li said the party is focused on the selection of the city’s chief executive, not on winning legislative seats. The chief executive is chosen by a committee of just 1,200 electors, many with close ties to Beijing. While Li said he was not planning to run in next year’s chief executive race, he hinted repeatedly that he was interested in the job someday. “If the community requires me to devote myself for such a job or responsibility, I’m willing to sacrifice myself,” he said in an interview in Beijing last month. Li said he did not tell the central or Hong Kong authorities that he was starting a party until after he had done so. Then he notified Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, and the Central Liaison Office, Beijing’s official arm in Hong Kong. He bristled at suggestions that he was an outsider. “I have been a permanent resident for 20 years,” said Li, a financier who moved to Hong Kong in 1993 after completing a doctorate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The co-founders say they want to reach opponents of the government as well as supporters. In its stated principles, the party professes a commitment to universal suffrage — a central demand of the pro-democracy camp — and a promise to make Hong Kong “one of the world’s most free, democratic and open” cities. Li said he wants to preserve the structure of “one country, two systems,” for an additional 50 years. But the pro-democracy camp has dismissed those overtures as lip service. An editorial in Apple Daily, a fervently pro-democracy newspaper, called the party a “Trojan horse” that would allow the Communist Party to operate openly in Hong Kong. Lo Kin-hei, chairman of the Democratic Party, wrote on Twitter that it was the “Hong Kong branch” of the Communist Party. The pro-Beijing camp has been equally hostile. Many have sneered at the Bauhinia Party’s stated goal of attracting 250,000 members, about five times more than the largest pro-Beijing party in Hong Kong has. Li said on Friday that the party had fewer than 100 members so far. “It is easy to start a party, but it is not that easy to establish your party as a viable political force,” said Jasper Tsang, founder of that largest party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong. Tsang dismissed the idea that the Bauhinia Party had Beijing’s backing or that Li could become chief executive. He pointed out that Hong Kong’s two major state-backed newspapers had paid little attention to the new party, which he said suggested a lack of official support. Regina Ip, the founder of another pro-Beijing party, said Li had approached her about possible collaboration and that she was “not in any way interested.” “I don’t think he begins to understand how complex the job is,” she said of Li’s hints about running for chief executive. “If you have some financial credentials, it doesn’t mean you are qualified.” Li acknowledged that he was not fluent in Hong Kong politics, despite his long residence in the city. He said he had never voted until late 2019. Asked about his position on a contentious proposal to allow Hong Kong residents living in mainland China to vote in the city’s elections, he said he had not heard of the issue. Some have been more amenable to the Bauhinia Party. Christine Loh, a former pro-democracy lawmaker who also worked in the administration of a pro-Beijing chief executive, said she did not know much about the new party. But she said that Hong Kongers should be more open to political figures more aligned with the mainland system. “It isn’t that it’s going to be extended to Hong Kong, but it’s not totally unconnected,” she said of the mainland system. It is possible, she said, that people with ties to it might be able to help Hong Kong. While Li insists that he did not consult any Chinese officials before establishing his party, he acknowledged discussing some of its proposals with officials since then. Last month, he visited a museum in Xiadang, a village where Xi worked as a young Communist Party cadre in the 1980s. Li said he wanted to learn more about the early development of “Xi Jinping Thought,” Xi’s ideological manifesto. Another co-founder, Wong Chau-chi, demurred in an interview with The South China Morning Post when asked whether Bauhinia Party members were secretly Communist Party members. “It’s not correct to judge our party on whether we have underground members or not,” he said. “It’s something not relevant to our governance.”

In Hong Kong, a new party’s calls for stability only raise suspicions

More than 50 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of violating the city's national security law. This is being seen as the biggest crackdown yet against the opposition camp under the contentious new legislation.

An American citizen working for a law firm was among those arrested. According to an AFP report, John Clancy, a solicitor with the law firm Ho Tse Wai and Partners -- a firm known for taking on human rights cases -- was arrested on suspicion of "subversion".

Police also arrived at the offices of pro-democracy online media outlet Stand News, according to live footage on its website.

The arrests&nbsp;also included former lawmakers and activists James To, Lam Cheuk-ting and Lester Shum, according to the Democratic Party's Facebook page and public broadcaster RTHK.

The Democratic Party's Facebook page said police arrested the activists for participating in an independently organised, unofficial ballot in July 2020 to select democratic candidates for a legislature election, which the Hong Kong government and Beijing warned at the time may violate the new law.

The legislative election was due in September last year but was postponed, with authorities citing coronavirus risks.

The attempt to win a majority in the 70-seat city legislature, which some candidates said could be used to block government proposals and increase pressure for democratic reforms, was seen as an "act of subversion, in violation of the national security law".

The security law punishes what China broadly defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail and has been condemned by the West and human rights groups as a tool to crush dissent in the former British colony.

Hong Kong was promised a high degree of autonomy unavailable elsewhere in China when it returned to Beijing rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" agreement. Since the imposition of the security law, leading pro-democracy activists such as media tycoon Jimmy Lai have been arrested, some democratic lawmakers have been disqualified, activists have fled into exile, and protest slogans and songs have been declared illegal.

(with inputs from agencies)

More than 50 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of violating the city's national security law. This is being seen as the biggest crackdown yet against the opposition camp under the contentious new legislation.

More than 50 Hong Kong pro-democracy activists were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of violating the city's national security law. This is being seen as the biggest crackdown yet against the opposition camp under the contentious new legislation. An American citizen working for a law firm was among those arrested. According to an AFP report, John Clancy, a solicitor with the law firm Ho Tse Wai and Partners -- a firm known for taking on human rights cases -- was arrested on suspicion of "subversion". Police also arrived at the offices of pro-democracy online media outlet Stand News, according to live footage on its website. The arrests also included former lawmakers and activists James To, Lam Cheuk-ting and Lester Shum, according to the Democratic Party's Facebook page and public broadcaster RTHK. The Democratic Party's Facebook page said police arrested the activists for participating in an independently organised, unofficial ballot in July 2020 to select democratic candidates for a legislature election, which the Hong Kong government and Beijing warned at the time may violate the new law. The legislative election was due in September last year but was postponed, with authorities citing coronavirus risks. The attempt to win a majority in the 70-seat city legislature, which some candidates said could be used to block government proposals and increase pressure for democratic reforms, was seen as an "act of subversion, in violation of the national security law". The security law punishes what China broadly defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail and has been condemned by the West and human rights groups as a tool to crush dissent in the former British colony. Hong Kong was promised a high degree of autonomy unavailable elsewhere in China when it returned to Beijing rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" agreement. Since the imposition of the security law, leading pro-democracy activists such as media tycoon Jimmy Lai have been arrested, some democratic lawmakers have been disqualified, activists have fled into exile, and protest slogans and songs have been declared illegal. (with inputs from agencies)

American among democracy activists arrested in Hong Kong under national security law

Around 50 pro-democracy activists have been arrested in Hong Kong under the new National Security Law imposed by Beijing. This happens to be the biggest crackdown yet against the pro-democracy movement.

Beijing calls the arrests of Hong Kong activists 'a necessary measure'

Hong Kong: Crackdown on pro-democracy movement under new National Security Law

Around 50 pro-democracy activists arrested in Hong Kong under the new National Security Law imposed by Beijing. This happens to be the biggest crackdown yet against the pro-democracy movement.

News Alert: 50 pro-democracy activists arrested in Hong Kong under NSL

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Jimmy Lai was detained last week.

"After further investigation by the police's National Security Department, a 73-year old man is charged with one count of 'collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security," police said in a statement.

Hong Kong authorities have intensified a crackdown on key opposition figures since Beijing circumvented the territory's legislature and imposed sweeping national security legislation on the global financial centre on June 30.

Critics of the national security law say that the law crushes freedoms enshrined under the "one country, two systems" formula, while supporters say it will bring stability after prolonged anti-China, pro-democracy protests last year.

Joshua Wong, a prominent activist was jailed for more than 13 months last week for his role in an anti-government rally in 2019.

(With agency inputs)

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was charged under new national security law on Friday. Jimmy Lai has a pro-democracy leaning and is a strong critic of Beijing. Lai has been accused of colluding with foreign forces. Jimmy Lai was detained last week. "After further investigation by the police's National Security Department, a 73-year old man is charged with one count of 'collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security," police said in a statement. Hong Kong authorities have intensified a crackdown on key opposition figures since Beijing circumvented the territory's legislature and imposed sweeping national security legislation on the global financial centre on June 30. Critics of the national security law say that the law crushes freedoms enshrined under the "one country, two systems" formula, while supporters say it will bring stability after prolonged anti-China, pro-democracy protests last year. Joshua Wong, a prominent activist was jailed for more than 13 months last week for his role in an anti-government rally in 2019. (With agency inputs)

Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai charged under national security law

The Hong Kong government’s decision to sentence prominent activists to prison for organizing an unauthorized assembly drew fire from several key members of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists groups.

Samuel Chu, managing director of the Washington DC-based Hong Kong Democracy Council has said that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is ready and willing to maintain control and power at all costs, even if it means imprisoning and wiping out a whole generation of Hong Kongers,".

"I am heartbroken and indignant at the treatment and immediate future of the trio—and thousands of activists like them," he added.

"But as Wong wrote this week from jail—'Cages cannot lock up souls' and the movement only grows stronger every time an activist is arrested, convicted, and jailed. HKDC condemns the harsh sentences and urges the United States and the international community to do the same."

Meanwhile, Hong Kong police have arrested three people for chanting slogans on the university campus last month. The three activists have been accused of chanting "banned" slogans and violating the controversial national security law.

The arrests have sparked a fresh row of protests in the city.

Li Kwai-wah, a senior officer in Hong Kong's new national security unit claimed the three had been arrested for "inciting secession" and unlawful assembly." They were spotted waving flags and chanting slogans advocating Hong Kong's independence," he said.

With the three main protestors, five others were also arrested for unlawful assembly.&nbsp;

These arrests have sparked fresh criticism against the national security law which has gained extreme criticism from various international organisations and governments and has also been dubbed as a tool to silence the pro-democracy voices.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hong Kong government’s decision to sentence prominent activists to prison for organizing an unauthorized assembly drew fire from several key members of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists groups.

The Hong Kong government’s decision to sentence prominent activists to prison for organizing an unauthorized assembly drew fire from several key members of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists groups. Samuel Chu, managing director of the Washington DC-based Hong Kong Democracy Council has said that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is ready and willing to maintain control and power at all costs, even if it means imprisoning and wiping out a whole generation of Hong Kongers,". "I am heartbroken and indignant at the treatment and immediate future of the trio—and thousands of activists like them," he added. "But as Wong wrote this week from jail—'Cages cannot lock up souls' and the movement only grows stronger every time an activist is arrested, convicted, and jailed. HKDC condemns the harsh sentences and urges the United States and the international community to do the same." Meanwhile, Hong Kong police have arrested three people for chanting slogans on the university campus last month. The three activists have been accused of chanting "banned" slogans and violating the controversial national security law. The arrests have sparked a fresh row of protests in the city. Li Kwai-wah, a senior officer in Hong Kong's new national security unit claimed the three had been arrested for "inciting secession" and unlawful assembly." They were spotted waving flags and chanting slogans advocating Hong Kong's independence," he said. With the three main protestors, five others were also arrested for unlawful assembly. These arrests have sparked fresh criticism against the national security law which has gained extreme criticism from various international organisations and governments and has also been dubbed as a tool to silence the pro-democracy voices. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese government wiping out a whole generation of Hong Kongers, rights group warns