A Hong Kong court convicted 14 individuals on Thursday for breaching the city's national security law, marking a high-profile verdict in a case tied to the 2020 \"primary election.\" The group, including former lawmakers and activists, were found guilty of \"conspiracy to subvert state power\" after organizing the unofficial poll aimed at influencing legislative elections.
The case, involving 47 people arrested in 2021, saw 16 defendants plead not guilty. The High Court of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region acquitted two but ruled against 14, including prominent figures like Lam Cheuk-ting and Leung Kwok-hung.
This ruling underscores Hong Kong's strict enforcement of the national security law, enacted in 2020 to address acts deemed secessionist, subversive, or collusive with foreign forces. Critics argue the law stifles dissent, while authorities say it ensures stability.
The convicted face sentencing later, with potential penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment. The case continues to draw global attention amid debates about governance and freedoms in the region.
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The group, including former lawmakers and activists, were found guilty of \"conspiracy to subvert state power\" after organizing the unofficial poll aimed at influencing legislative elections.
The case continues to draw global attention amid debates about governance and freedoms in the region.
