The Business Press – July 04, 2023 at 07:00PM
In a recent development, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee declared that a group of exiled pro-democracy activists would be relentlessly pursued, signaling an intensified crackdown on dissent. The authorities have offered a substantial bounty of HK$1 million (around $125,000) for any information leading to the arrest of these individuals accused of violating the controversial National Security Law.
Since its implementation in 2020, the National Security Law has been heavily criticized for curtailing democratic rights and stifling dissent. Aimed at criminalizing acts such as secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, the law has been increasingly employed to suppress pro-democracy figures and restrict any form of opposition that challenges the Chinese and Hong Kong governments.
The authorities’ decision to offer bounties for the apprehension of these activists marks the first instance of such measures targeting alleged violators of the law.
Eight individuals, including three former lawmakers, are among those targeted by the Hong Kong authorities. Currently residing in Australia, the U.K., and the U.S.—countries that have openly criticized Hong Kong’s suppression of dissidents—these activists face heightened scrutiny and potential limitations on their mobility.
While the prospect of actual arrests remains uncertain due to the activists’ overseas locations, the intended impact is to instill a sense of fear among the Hong Kong diaspora and dissuade them from supporting pro-democracy movements.
Critics have long denounced China’s extraterritorial reach, which has been exemplified by attempts to apprehend political dissidents across borders. China’s state-owned newspapers have even suggested possible collaboration with Interpol, despite the organization’s prohibition against political interventions.
Furthermore, China and Hong Kong have signed extradition treaties with numerous countries worldwide. Although the affected countries have suspended their extradition agreements since the National Security Law’s enforcement, the arrest warrants issued by Hong Kong authorities have impinged upon the activists’ freedom of travel.
For individuals like Anna Kwok, one of those named by the Hong Kong police who now resides in the U.S., the bounties have heightened concerns about personal safety and travel restrictions.
Moreover, the activists fear that the bounties may further incite pro-Beijing supporters within Chinese and Hong Kong diaspora communities, exacerbating tensions and dividing groups.
The announcement of these bounties serves as a warning to individuals worldwide, discouraging them from speaking up against the erosion of freedoms in China and Hong Kong. This create a climate of apprehension among potential critics. However, the ultimate prosecution of these activists remains uncertain, leaving room for questions and speculation.
The Hong Kong authorities’ decision to offer substantial bounties for the arrest of exiled pro-democracy activists sends a clear message: any challenge to national security will not be tolerated.
The Business Press 