The Hong Kong 47 were charged three years ago under the National Security Law, which led to the biggest crackdown in the region. From a 68-year-old former opposition lawmaker to a 27-year-old student activist, some of Hong Kong’s well-known pro-democracy campaigners are awaiting a verdict on subversion charges on Thursday.
These individuals, known as the Hong Kong 47, were charged for attempting to “overthrow” the government by organizing unofficial primaries for opposition candidates in local elections in July 2020. This act was seen as a violation of the National Security Law, imposed by China shortly before the primaries took place.
Despite Beijing defending the law as necessary for stability, critics argue that it has eroded Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms. The accused individuals include prominent figures like opposition lawmakers Claudia Mo, Helena Wong, Kwok ka-ki, and activists like Joshua Wong and Benny Tai, who were iconic figures in the 2014 pro-democracy protests.
Among the accused are also new generation activists like Owen Chow, Ventus Lau, and Tiffany Yuen, who were inspired by the 2019 protests in Hong Kong. Sixteen of the 47 have pleaded not guilty, while the remaining 31 have pleaded guilty. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment, with sentencing expected at a later date.
The crackdown has led to many pro-democracy campaigners being either behind bars or in exile, including figures like Nathan Law and ex-legislator Ted Hui. Benny Tai, a law professor and activist, faced repercussions for his involvement in the Occupy Central movement and was later charged with subversion under the NSL.
Joshua Wong, one of the most recognizable faces in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, has faced multiple arrests and jail terms for his activism. Similarly, longtime activists like Leung Kwok-hung and Claudia Mo have also been targeted under the National Security Law.
Jimmy Sham, a prominent LGBTQI activist and leader of the Civil Human Rights Front, has faced violent attacks and challenges due to the crackdown on pro-democracy groups in Hong Kong.
The fate of these individuals remains uncertain as they await the verdict on the subversion charges, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy and freedoms in Hong Kong.