Hongkong, Nov 20: Hong Kong’s High Court has sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms ranging from 4 to 10 years in a national security case. The trial involved charges of conspiracy to commit subversion related to organizing an unofficial “primary election” in 2020. This case, under Beijing’s 2020 national security law, has been criticized globally for undermining Hong Kong’s democracy and freedoms.
Among those sentenced was Benny Tai, a former law scholar, who received the longest sentence of 10 years. The primary election aimed to select candidates for a legislative vote but was accused by prosecutors of planning to disrupt the government. Many activists pleaded guilty, while others denied the charges but were still convicted. Critics argue that their actions were peaceful political participation, not subversion.
The United States condemned the sentences, calling them “politically motivated” and demanded the release of the activists. Australia’s Foreign Minister also expressed concern, urging China to stop suppressing freedoms in Hong Kong. However, Chinese officials defended the law, claiming it was necessary to restore stability after the 2019 pro-democracy protests.
During sentencing, judges said the activists had planned to paralyze the government, even though their plan did not succeed. The court granted sentence reductions for those who admitted guilt. Outside the court, hundreds of supporters gathered, some criticizing the crackdown. Activist Gwyneth Ho, sentenced to seven years, said the activists’ only crime was questioning if democracy was possible in Hong Kong.
The sentencing comes as Hong Kong works to maintain its reputation as a global financial hub. Critics say such trials hurt the city’s international standing, while Beijing continues to back the law as crucial for national security. International voices, including Taiwan, have pledged to support Hong Kong’s democracy movement.