Organizers of 2014 pro-democracy rallies now on trial say rights at risk as fears grow of Beijing’s tightening grip over territory
Hong Kong protest leaders who went on trial Monday for spearheading pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 said their prosecution threatens the future of civil rights in the territory, where fears have grown of Beijing’s growing influence.
“What is on trial is not just the nine of us. What is on trial also is the high degree of autonomy and the rule of law that all Hong Kong people are entitled to,” said defendant and University of Hong Kong law professor Benny Tai at a news conference following the first day of the trial.
Tai, along with another professor and a pastor, were leaders of the “Occupy Central” campaign to press for free elections of Hong Kong’s top leader. They are charged with conspiracy to commit a public disturbance and incitement to commit public nuisance.
Protesters in what was also known as the umbrella movement laid siege to the government headquarters and paralyzed Hong Kong’s financial district for 79 days but failed to win any concessions. Thousands staked out encampments on major thoroughfares. Several hundred were arrested.
The other defendants – two current and one former lawmaker, two student leaders and a political activist – face charges of incitement to commit a public nuisance.
