Hong Kong — Two prominent activists, Lee Cheuk-yan and Chow Hang-tung, were found guilty on Tuesday of inciting the overthrow of the government, in a verdict that further narrows the space for political opposition in Hong Kong. Both defendants, 69-year-old Lee and 41-year-old Chow, were convicted of the offence of inciting overthrow, facing a prison sentence of up to 10 years. This verdict comes against the backdrop of increasingly strict enforcement of the national security law, introduced in 2020, which criminalises secession, subversive acts, terrorism and collaboration with foreign powers.
Lee Cheuk-yan, one of the key figures in the local political scene, was a prominent figure in the Hong Kong Alliance, an organisation established in 1989. Over the years, that organisation has been a voice for pro-Western change, but is now winding up, reflecting growing pressures on civil society in the region. Lee, alongside Chow, was charged with inciting disobedience, part of a broader series of charges against activists who campaigned for democratic reforms.
In a similar case, Chow was previously charged in 2021 with inciting participation in protests, but her verdict was overturned by the Court of Final Appeal. It was then determined that the police did not have sufficiently strong arguments to ban the protests, leading to a review of the legal basis for such measures. However, in this case, Lee and Chow were found guilty, further restricting the space for political opposition.
This verdict comes at a time when Hong Kong is facing increasing pressure to align with Chinese laws, which has led to a reduction in freedom of expression and political activism. Lee and Chow, as prominent figures, now face lengthy prison sentences, which could have long-term consequences for the political landscape in Hong Kong.
This verdict also sends a clear message to others who might consider similar activities, highlighting the strictness of the law and severe penalties for those who dare to challenge the authorities. In the context of increasing control over civil liberties, this verdict could have long-term consequences for democratic processes in Hong Kong.
