Hong Kong’s Largest National Security Case: Pro-Democracy Activists Convicted

The Hong Kong Court delivered a significant verdict in what’s considered the city’s largest national security case, convicting over a dozen pro-democracy activists of subversion charges, as reported by CNN. This decision stems from Hong Kong’s most extensive national security trial post-Beijing’s crackdown with its national security law.

Fourteen politicians and activists were found guilty of “conspiracy to commit subversion” for organizing an unofficial primary in 2020 to select city council candidates. This trial, known as the “Hong Kong 47” case, involved a range of individuals, including seasoned politicians, elected lawmakers, young protest leaders, academics, journalists, and medical workers.

While most defendants pleaded guilty during the trial, 16 chose to contest the charges, leading to a lengthy trial spanning over a year. Today, two were acquitted, while the remaining 45 await sentencing, facing potential life imprisonment.

The verdict underscores how the national security law has reshaped Hong Kong’s political landscape, significantly curtailing dissent and dismantling the once-vibrant pro-democracy movement. Independent media outlets shut down, and civic groups dissolved post the law’s enactment in 2020.

Pro-Beijing loyalists now dominate Hong Kong’s legislative body, as many pro-democracy figures are either jailed or in exile abroad. Among those convicted were former journalist Gwyneth Ho and ex-lawmaker Leung Kwok-hung, known as ‘Long Hair,’ each representing different facets of Hong Kong’s political activism.