Fourteen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists were found guilty of subversion under China's national security law, in a landmark trial criticized for undermining the city's rule of law and international reputation. Sentencing, which could range from three years to life in prison, will occur later. The trial has drawn international condemnation, with countries like the U.S. and Australia expressing deep concern.
A Hong Kong court has found 14 out of 16 democracy activists guilty of subversion under the Beijing-imposed national security law, marking the largest trial under the law. The trial, which does not allow jury trials, involved 47 people charged over a 2020 primary election. Two defendants were acquitted, while the rest pleaded guilty. The prosecution argued that the group's plan to block the annual budget would have caused political instability. The verdict has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, highlighting concerns over the erosion of democratic processes in Hong Kong. Sentencing will follow, with potential life imprisonment for primary offenders.
