The Democratic Party, Hong Kong's largest opposition group, announces plans for potential dissolution, facing challenges from a crackdown on dissent in the city.
Democratic Party in Hong Kong Faces Dissolution Amidst Increasing Pressure
Democratic Party in Hong Kong Faces Dissolution Amidst Increasing Pressure
Long-standing opposition group votes on fate following political crackdown.
The Democratic Party, once a key player in Hong Kong's political landscape, has revealed plans to potentially dissolve after 31 years of operation. Chairman Lo Kin-hei spoke at a late-night press conference, indicating that members would soon cast votes on the party's future amidst growing political repression.
The decision comes on the heels of stringent measures from the Chinese government to stifle dissent following the 2019 protests, which have severely impacted the party's ability to function. Under new laws, including the 2021 "patriots law," only individuals loyal to the Communist regime are permitted to hold political office in Hong Kong, effectively barring the Democratic Party from participating in elections.
Mr. Lo cited the "current political situation" as a significant factor in the party's decision to consider winding down. He noted the increasing difficulties of fostering democracy in Hong Kong and did not address questions about whether political pressure influenced the leadership’s call to disband.
To finalize the dissolution, at least 75% of members present at a future general meeting must approve the action, although a date for this meeting has yet to be determined. In response to the party's challenges, Regina Ip, a Hong Kong government adviser, remarked that she was not surprised by the Democratic Party's dwindling support, accusing it of perpetuating an agenda that contradicted national interests.
Historically, the Democratic Party has struggled with internal divisions, particularly among its younger members, who viewed negotiations with Beijing in 2010 as a betrayal. Despite earlier setbacks, the party regained prominence following the 2019 local council elections, attracting a significant vote during a time of unrest.
However, several members of the party, including notable figures such as Helena Wong and Albert Ho, are now part of the detained "Hong Kong 47" under the controversial national security law. The party's founder, Martin Lee, has also faced repression, losing his honorary title after a legal battle. With their situation increasingly precarious, the Democratic Party's potential dissolution marks a significant event in Hong Kong's evolving political climate.
The decision comes on the heels of stringent measures from the Chinese government to stifle dissent following the 2019 protests, which have severely impacted the party's ability to function. Under new laws, including the 2021 "patriots law," only individuals loyal to the Communist regime are permitted to hold political office in Hong Kong, effectively barring the Democratic Party from participating in elections.
Mr. Lo cited the "current political situation" as a significant factor in the party's decision to consider winding down. He noted the increasing difficulties of fostering democracy in Hong Kong and did not address questions about whether political pressure influenced the leadership’s call to disband.
To finalize the dissolution, at least 75% of members present at a future general meeting must approve the action, although a date for this meeting has yet to be determined. In response to the party's challenges, Regina Ip, a Hong Kong government adviser, remarked that she was not surprised by the Democratic Party's dwindling support, accusing it of perpetuating an agenda that contradicted national interests.
Historically, the Democratic Party has struggled with internal divisions, particularly among its younger members, who viewed negotiations with Beijing in 2010 as a betrayal. Despite earlier setbacks, the party regained prominence following the 2019 local council elections, attracting a significant vote during a time of unrest.
However, several members of the party, including notable figures such as Helena Wong and Albert Ho, are now part of the detained "Hong Kong 47" under the controversial national security law. The party's founder, Martin Lee, has also faced repression, losing his honorary title after a legal battle. With their situation increasingly precarious, the Democratic Party's potential dissolution marks a significant event in Hong Kong's evolving political climate.
