On Thursday, more than a dozen of Hong Kong's prominent democracy figures were found guilty of subversion charges in a significant verdict under Beijing's national security crackdown on the city. The 14 activists and politicians were convicted for their involvement in organizing an unofficial primary election in 2020 to determine candidates for city lawmaker elections.
This trial, known as the 'Hong Kong 47,' involved 47 defendants and was the largest prosecution under the national security law imposed by Beijing after mass anti-government protests. While most defendants pleaded guilty, 16 chose to contest the charges, with two being acquitted on Thursday.
The convictions highlight how the national security law has reshaped Hong Kong's political landscape, leading to the dismantling of the once-vibrant pro-democracy movement. Critics argue that the law has stifled freedoms, while authorities claim it has restored stability to the city.
Since the law's implementation in 2020, civil groups have disbanded, independent media outlets closed, and the legislature now comprises mainly pro-Beijing loyalists. Many pro-democracy figures are either imprisoned or in exile.
The defendants, including politicians, activists, journalists, and medical workers, have been in detention for over three years. The convicted individuals represent a diverse range of political views, from moderate democrats to advocates of Hong Kong's self-determination.
Following the verdicts, emotional scenes unfolded in the courtroom as family members waved to the defendants. Two defendants were acquitted, the first in a national security law trial in Hong Kong.
The remaining 45 defendants face sentencing and could potentially receive life imprisonment. The outcome of this trial underscores the tightening grip of Beijing on Hong Kong's once-autonomous political landscape.
