Twelve Hong Kong activists appeal convictions in landmark '47 democrats' case

 

Twelve Hong Kong activists have begun appeals against their convictions and prison sentences in a major national security case that has drawn global attention. Known as the “47 democrats” case, it stems from an unofficial primary election held in July 2020. The event was intended to shortlist pro-democracy candidates for upcoming legislative elections, following months of massive 2019 protests calling for democratic reforms in the city.

Authorities deemed the election a "conspiracy to commit subversion" under the sweeping 2020 national security law imposed by China. By 2021, 47 prominent figures from Hong Kong’s opposition camp were arrested in coordinated dawn raids. Ultimately, 45 of them were convicted of subversion. Prosecutors argued the activists sought to paralyze the government through their campaign platform.

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Among those appealing are high-profile figures like Gwyneth Ho, Gordon Ng, and Owen Chow, each sentenced to over seven years. One defendant, Michael Pang, has withdrawn his appeal, while another, Prince Wong, who previously pleaded guilty, is appealing her sentence. The court is also hearing a government appeal to overturn the acquittal of barrister Lawrence Lau.

Tight security surrounded the West Kowloon law courts as proceedings began, with police patrols and public queues for court tickets. Diplomats from several Western countries attended, reflecting international interest and concern over Hong Kong’s shrinking freedoms.

The appeal marks another chapter in Hong Kong’s deepening political crisis since the 2019 protest movement. Foreign governments, particularly the United States, have labeled the trial politically motivated and called for the immediate release of the jailed activists. The U.S. and others argue that the charges criminalize peaceful political participation and dissent.

Hong Kong and Chinese officials maintain that the judiciary is independent and the defendants received fair trials. They insist the national security law is essential for restoring stability after the 2019 unrest. However, critics argue it has been used as a tool to silence political opposition and eliminate democratic institutions in the once semi-autonomous city.

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The broader crackdown has already led to the closure of pro-democracy media outlets and civil society organizations. This year, Hong Kong’s last two remaining opposition parties the Democratic Party and the League of Social Democrats shut down due to mounting political pressure and legal risks.

The "47 democrats" case remains the largest and most high-profile trial under the national security law to date. The outcome of the appeal process could further influence global perceptions of Hong Kong’s judicial system and Beijing’s control over the city’s political landscape. The hearings are expected to continue for roughly ten days, with outcomes likely to set legal precedents for future national security cases.