News|Hong Kong ProtestsHong Kong court rejects appeal in landmark subversion caseThe appellants were among 45 opposition figures sentenced to prison in 2024 for organising an unofficial primary election.
The Hong Kong Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by democracy campaigners involved in a subversion case under the national security law imposed by Beijing.
The Hong Kong Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by democracy campaigners involved in a subversion case under the national security law imposed by Beijing.
The verdict pertains to the "Hong Kong 47" case, where pro-democracy activists and politicians were arrested for organizing an unofficial primary election, which authorities considered a subversive activity.
In 2024, forty-five defendants received sentences ranging from four to ten years in prison. Eleven activists who appealed their convictions had their appeals rejected. Former lawmakers and a journalist were among those whose appeals were dismissed. All appeals regarding sentences were also dismissed.
Lawrence Lau, a former district councillor, was acquitted, and his acquittal was upheld following a prosecution appeal.
The subversion charges originate from the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. In June 2020, Beijing introduced a national security law, significantly limiting dissent in the city.
In 2024, forty-five defendants received sentences ranging from four to ten years in prison.
In July of the same year, the pro-democracy camp conducted an unofficial primary to select legislative election candidates. The aim was to secure a legislative majority to potentially veto the city budget unless demands for universal suffrage and enhanced police accountability were met.
Participation in the unofficial poll was high, but subsequently, authorities arrested numerous opposition figures. The group included elected lawmakers, district councillors, unionists, and academics.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that the activists intended to disrupt the government's functionality and force the resignation of the city's leader. The court concluded that the plans posed a threat to governmental authority and could have caused a constitutional crisis.
Defense arguments included that vetoing the budget is a legitimate "check and balance" as per Hong Kong's mini-constitution.
Some appellants have been incarcerated for nearly five years. As of last month, 18 defendants who did not appeal their convictions have been released after completing their sentences.
Hong Kong continues to face increased restrictions on freedom of expression and the press. In a recent case, media tycoon Jimmy Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.