Hong Kong Court to Issue Landmark Verdict in City’s Largest National Security Case

Hong Kong’s pro-democracy activists are facing a critical moment as they await their verdicts in the city’s biggest national security case. The 16 defendants, including well-known figures like legal scholar Benny Tai and former student leader Joshua Wong, are charged with attempting to paralyze the government and topple the city’s leader through an unofficial primary election.

The activists are accused of subversion under a law imposed by Beijing, which has severely limited free speech and assembly in Hong Kong. Many activists have been arrested, silenced, or forced into self-exile since the law was introduced in 2020.

Despite the challenges they face, supporters of the activists have shown up in large numbers outside the court building, eager to show their solidarity. Social worker Stanley Chang arrived at 4 a.m. to secure a seat in the public gallery, emphasizing the importance of being there for his friend and the other defendants.

The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for the future of democracy in Hong Kong. The activists had hoped to secure a legislative majority through the 2020 primary election, but the government postponed the official election and overhauled electoral laws, reducing the public’s ability to vote.

As the defendants await their verdicts, supporters like SL Chiu are collecting messages of encouragement to send to the activists, reaffirming their commitment to the pro-democracy movement. The hearing marks a historic moment for Hong Kong, highlighting the ongoing struggle for civil liberties in the city.