Hong Kong Activists Face Verdicts in Landmark Trial

A Hong Kong court has begun issuing verdicts in the city’s largest national security trial on Thursday. This comes as the authorities utilize sweeping powers imposed by Beijing to quash political dissent in the Chinese territory.

The trial involves 47 pro-democracy activists and opposition leaders, including Benny Tai, a former law professor, and Joshua Wong, a protest leader and founder of a student group. These individuals face the possibility of prison sentences, with some potentially facing life imprisonment. Their offense revolves around holding a primary election to bolster their chances in citywide polls.

Lengthy Detentions

Most of the defendants have been in detention for at least the last three years, both ahead of and during the 118-day trial. On Thursday, judges appointed by Hong Kong’s pro-Beijing leader were scheduled to commence the issuance of verdicts on 16 of the defendants who had pleaded not guilty. Those found guilty will be sentenced later, along with 31 others who had entered guilty pleas.

The anticipated convictions and subsequent sentences are likely to transform the forefront of the city’s opposition. This was once a hallmark of its vibrant political scene, into a generation of political prisoners.