Top Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders sentenced to jail

A Hong Kong court sentenced key pro-democracy leaders to prison for subversion under the controversial national security law (NSL). Benny Tai received 10 years, while Joshua Wong got over four years. The trial involved the “Hong Kong 47,” accused of plotting to subvert by holding unofficial primaries for local elections.

This marked the largest use of the NSL, imposed by China after the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Those protests began against an extradition bill but soon grew into broader demands for democracy. Observers argue the NSL has eroded Hong Kong’s rule of law and pro-democracy movement.

The court found most defendants guilty. It justified Tai’s long sentence, citing his plan for the primaries as an “advocacy for revolution.” Wong, already in jail for prior protests, had his sentence reduced for pleading guilty but did not receive further leniency. Other prominent figures, like journalist Gwyneth Ho and lawmakers Claudia Mo and Leung Kwok-hung, received terms between four and seven years.

The 2020 primaries, supported by over half a million Hongkongers, aimed to block pro-Beijing legislation. Activists claimed it was legal under the Basic Law, Hong Kong’s mini-constitution. However, Beijing saw it as a threat to national security. Authorities arrested the 47 activists in early 2021, accusing them of attempting to overthrow the government.

Critics, including Human Rights Watch, condemned the sentencing, calling it evidence of the rapid decline in Hong Kong’s civil liberties and judicial independence. Experts noted the trial sets a precedent for harsh penalties against dissent under the NSL, pushing many into self-censorship.

While the pro-democracy camp faces significant setbacks, activists argue Beijing hasn’t won public trust. Sunny Cheung, an activist now in exile, said the government might suppress opposition but has alienated an entire generation, failing to gain their loyalty.