Hong Kong Activists’ Trial Nears Conclusion under China’s Imposed Law : Analysis

The trial of 16 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, who are accused of conspiracy to commit subversion, has reached its closing phase. These activists are among 47 opposition figures, including elected lawmakers and unionists, who were arrested in 2021 for allegedly plotting to subvert the government. The trial is seen as a significant indicator of the political climate in Hong Kong and is believed to be part of Beijing’s crackdown on the city’s pro-democracy movement.

The activists are being charged under a controversial national security law imposed by China, which criminalizes secession, subversion, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorism. Many critics argue that this law undermines the autonomy promised to Hong Kong when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997 and has led to the imprisonment or exile of numerous pro-democracy figures.

Throughout the 100-day trial, prosecutors have presented evidence of the activists’ alleged plan to subvert the government. They claim that the activists intended to organize an unofficial primary vote to consolidate their power in the legislature. They would then use their influence to veto government budgets and put pressure on the government to meet their demands, ultimately aiming to subvert state power or force the Chief Executive of Hong Kong to resign.

One of the key demands of the activists was an independent inquiry into alleged police brutality against protesters during the 2019 demonstrations. Prosecutors argue that the activists’ actions, even without actual violence, amount to subversion.

Human rights experts and campaigners have expressed concerns about the arrest and trial of the activists. In October, a group of United Nations experts stated that the use of mass trials in national security law cases could undermine due process and the right to a fair trial.

Outside the court, activists like Alexandra Wong have voiced their support for the charged activists and called for their immediate release.

Most of the defendants have been detained for over 1,000 days and have undergone lengthy bail hearings. Thirty-one of the 47 defendants have pleaded guilty, which may result in reduced sentences. Sixteen defendants, including journalist Gwyneth Ho, activists Owen Chow and Gordon Ng, and former lawmakers Leung Kwok-hung, Lam Cheuk-ting, and Helena Wong, have not pleaded guilty. Former law professor Benny Tai and activist Joshua Wong, who have pleaded guilty, will be sentenced after the trial. Four defendants who pleaded guilty have become prosecution witnesses.

The closing arguments of the trial are expected to last 10 days before the court adjourns to consider the verdict.

Source: Aljazeera news: Trial of Hong Kong activists under China-imposed law enters home straight