Editorial | Subversion sentences close difficult chapter as Hong Kong rule of law prevails
Justice neither delayed nor denied in Hong Kong’s longest-running national security case that saw jail terms for 45 opposition figures
The jailing of 45 opposition figures for a plot to subvert state power is a landmark for Hong Kong’s judicial system, bringing the city’s biggest and longest-running national security case to an end. Three judges delivered an 82-page ruling giving reasons for imposing sentences of up to 10 years on the former politicians and activists, including ex-lawmakers and district councillors.
The jail terms have been condemned by Western governments. But the legal process, which included a 118-day trial, should be understood and respected.
The case involved an unauthorised “primary” vote in 2020 to select opposition candidates for Legislative Council elections.
The court found this was part of a wider plot to gain control of the legislature and paralyse the city by voting down the budget and forcing the chief executive to resign.
Legal scholar Benny Tai Yiu-ting, described as the mastermind, was found to have “advocated for a revolution”. If the scheme had succeeded, “the adverse consequences would be far-reaching and no less serious than overthrowing the government”, the court said.
