- Hong Kong pro-democracy Leaders sentenced under National Security Law
- Leaders sentenced to lengthy prison terms for subversion
- Landmark trial under China’s controversial national security law
- The trial resulted in most of the “Hong Kong 47” group being convicted
- Critics, including the U.S. and Australia, have condemned the trial
Hong Kong pro-democracy Leaders sentenced under National Security Law
Prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for subversion in a landmark trial under China’s controversial national security law (NSL).
Benny Tai, a legal scholar, was handed a 10-year sentence, while activist Joshua Wong received over four years. They were among the “Hong Kong 47,” a group of activists and lawmakers charged with organising a primary election in 2020 to select opposition candidates for local polls.
The trial, the largest application of the NSL since its introduction in 2020, resulted in most of the group being convicted of conspiring to subvert state power, with only two acquitted. Sentences ranged from four to ten years.
The NSL was imposed by Beijing following the massive 2019 pro-democracy protests that brought millions to the streets. The protests, initially sparked by an extradition bill allowing transfers to mainland China, evolved into a broader push for democratic reform.
Critics, including the U.S. and Australia, have condemned the trial. The U.S. called it “politically motivated,” and Australia expressed “grave concerns,” particularly about the sentencing of its citizen, Gordon Ng. Observers argue the NSL has undermined Hong Kong’s rule of law and quashed its pro-democracy movement, further consolidating Beijing’s control.
Hong Kong authorities, however, defend the law as essential for stability and national security, framing the convictions as a deterrent against threats to China’s sovereignty.
The case drew significant public attention, with citizens lining up outside the courthouse days in advance for a chance to observe the proceedings.