Hong Kong’s High Court is poised to deliver a verdict this week in a high-profile subversion trial involving 16 democrats, a case that has captured international attention and could have far-reaching implications for the city’s democratic movement and its reputation as a global financial hub.
The trial stems from the arrest of 47 democrats in mass dawn raids more than three years ago, with charges of “conspiracy to commit subversion” under a national security law imposed by China. While 31 of the defendants have pleaded guilty, 16 maintain their innocence, with four becoming prosecution witnesses.
The case, known as the 47 democrats case, revolves around an unofficial primary election in July 2020 that prosecutors allege was a plot to destabilize the government. The defendants argue it was an attempt to select strong candidates for a citywide election to secure a majority in the legislature.
The verdict, expected to be delivered by High Court Judges Alex Lee, Andrew Chan, and Johnny Chan, will determine the fate of the accused, some of whom have been detained for over 1,000 days. The trial has drawn criticism from countries like the U.S. for being politically motivated.
Regardless of the outcome, the trial has marginalized Hong Kong’s once vibrant democratic opposition, which had long pushed for full democracy in the city. The case has raised concerns about the erosion of Hong Kong’s common law tradition, with key departures like the absence of a jury and limited bail grants.
As the city awaits the court’s decision, the future of Hong Kong’s democratic movement hangs in the balance, with implications that could reverberate far beyond its borders.