Hong Kong is awaiting the verdict in the longest and largest national security trial in its history, involving 47 pro-democracy legislators and activists. The defendants have spent a combined total of 39,000 days in remand before the sentencing phase begins. They were arrested in January 2021 for allegedly planning to subvert the government by organizing an unofficial primary election. Prosecutors claim this was an attempt to overthrow the government. The trial, which began in February 2023, has been delayed by COVID-19 outbreaks and logistical challenges. The verdict is expected soon, with judges starting to deliver their decisions for the 16 defendants who pleaded not guilty. The defendants face charges that could result in life imprisonment under Beijing’s security law. The trial has drawn attention to Hong Kong’s eroding freedoms and the crackdown on pro-democracy activists.
