Ocean County Leader

Forty-five activists in Hong Kong have been sentenced to prison terms of up to 10 years, prompting criticism from international governments and human rights organizations. The sentences were issued under a national security law imposed by Beijing in 2021, following the activists' participation in an unofficial primary election aimed at selecting opposition candidates. This case is the largest national security prosecution in Hong Kong to date.

The U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong condemned the sentences, asserting that the defendants were prosecuted for engaging in political activities protected by the city's mini-constitution. "We call on (Beijing) and Hong Kong authorities to cease politically motivated prosecutions of Hong Kong citizens and to immediately release all political prisoners and individuals jailed for their peaceful advocacy for rights and freedoms," stated the consulate.

In Washington, D.C., bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission chairs criticized the sentencing as a violation of international law. Representative Chris Smith, a Republican from New Jersey, and Senator Jeff Merkley, a Democrat from Oregon, urged the Biden administration to impose sanctions on judges and prosecutors involved in what they described as actions undermining democracy and human rights in Hong Kong.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed grave concern over the sentencing of Australian citizen Gordon Ng among others. Wong indicated that Australia has lodged strong objections with Chinese and Hong Kong authorities regarding the broad application of national security legislation.

Catherine West from Britain's Foreign Office remarked that the sentencing exemplifies how Hong Kong authorities are using security laws to criminalize political dissent. "Those sentenced today were exercising their right to freedom of speech, of assembly and of political participation," she said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian defended the legal proceedings, arguing that democracy should not be used as a pretext for unlawful activities. Lin criticized Western countries for interfering in China's internal affairs while ignoring their own national security practices.

The European Union labeled the sentencing as another significant blow against fundamental freedoms within Hong Kong. It expressed deep concern over what it sees as politically motivated prosecutions against peaceful political activity.

Hong Kong leader John Lee maintained that the activists intended to undermine or overthrow the city's political system. Security Minister Chris Tang emphasized that national security is crucial for safeguarding prosperity and highlighted that any violations are taken seriously by his government.

Taiwan's presidential office condemned Beijing's actions as unjust suppression of pro-democracy figures' rights. Karen Kuo stated that this incident further proves "one country, two systems" is unfeasible.

Jeremy Laurence from the United Nations voiced grave concerns about using security laws to criminalize conduct protected by human rights standards. He noted ongoing engagement with Chinese authorities on these issues.

Chris Patten, Hong Kong’s last British governor, called the sentences an affront to those who value global rights and freedoms. Amnesty International's Sarah Brooks argued none of those sentenced committed internationally recognized crimes but were jailed for exercising human rights.

Maya Wang from Human Rights Watch highlighted how quickly civil liberties have deteriorated since implementing the security law four years ago.

AP writer Didi Tang contributed reporting from Washington D.C., with Kanis Leung covering developments related to China from her base in Hong Kong.