In a landmark case under Hong Kong’s controversial National Security Law, 45 pro-democracy figures were convicted on November 19, 2024, for “conspiracy to commit subversion.” The charges stemmed from their involvement in an unofficial primary election in 2020 aimed at securing seats in Hong Kong’s Legislative Council. This primary, deemed illegal under Beijing’s crackdown on dissent, was framed by authorities as part of a broader conspiracy to undermine government stability. The trial, which lasted 118 days, was marked by numerous concerns over fairness, including prolonged pretrial detentions and the handpicking of judges by the Chief Executive, a practice that has drawn significant international criticism.
The accused, who included prominent academics, former lawmakers, and activists, faced sentences ranging from just over four years to a maximum of ten years. Benny Tai, a former University of Hong Kong law professor, was labeled a “principal offender” and received the longest sentence. Others who cooperated with authorities or pleaded guilty received reduced terms. Many observers, including human rights groups, have criticized these harsh punishments as a sign of Hong Kong’s diminishing freedoms and judicial independence, pointing to the National Security Law’s use to stifle peaceful political participation.
International observers have widely condemned the sentences as excessive and politically motivated, with calls for the immediate release of those convicted. As Rights Defenders, we highlight how such trials erode civil liberties and suppress legitimate democratic aspirations.Despite the heavy sentences, many supporters of democracy in Hong Kong remain steadfast, viewing these events as a grim reminder of the cost of their struggle for autonomy and representation.
References
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/11/20/hong-kong-45-democracy-advocates-harshly-sentenced
