Beijing [China], November 21 (ANI): The United Nations, alongside the US, UK, and Australian governments, condemned the sentencing of 45 democracy activists and former lawmakers to prison terms of up to 10 years for "subversion." This condemnation follows calls for tougher sanctions on Hong Kong amid increasing political repression.
Reports indicate that the sentences were imposed on pro-democracy activists for organizing a primary election in July 2020. Critics, including rights activists and Hong Kong's former colonial governor, described the sentencing as part of an ongoing assault on democratic freedoms since the region's transfer from Britain to China in 1997.
The US Department of State announced new visa restrictions on several Hong Kong officials linked to the enforcement of the 2020 National Security Law, which has been utilized to prosecute the activists. The US called for the immediate release of the 45 individuals, stating that their sentences undermine trust in Hong Kong's judicial system.
British Foreign Office minister Catherine West characterized the sentencing as an example of the misuse of the National Security Law to suppress political dissent. She emphasized that those sentenced were exercising their rights to free speech and assembly.
Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister, Penny Wong, expressed concern over the sentencing, particularly regarding Australian citizen Gordon Ng. She urged China to cease its suppression of fundamental freedoms and called for the repeal of the National Security Law.
The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), represented by High Commissioner Volker Turk, called for an urgent review of the convictions and urged compliance with international human rights standards, particularly regarding freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
In response, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Li Jian asserted that democracy should not be a pretext for illegal activities. He reiterated the Central Government's commitment to national security and criticized foreign interference in China's internal affairs.
Lord Patten of Barnes, the last British colonial governor of Hong Kong, condemned the sentencing as an affront to the people of Hong Kong, while Canadian Senator Leo Housakos described it as a "grave injustice."
Former politics lecturer Chan Kin-man, co-founder of the 2014 Occupy Central movement, stated that none of the imprisoned activists should have been incarcerated, emphasizing their commitment to peaceful advocacy.