Hong Kong activist jailed for sedition in first post-colonial case
NBCOct 19, 2022
Hong Kong Activist Jailed for 40 Months After Sedition Trial
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Image copyright: SCMP/Getty Images [via NBC News]
The Facts
Political activist Tam Tak-chi was sentenced Wed. to 40 months in jail following Hong Kong's first sedition trial since its handover from British to Chinese rule in 1997.
He was sentenced on 11 charges, including uttering seditious words, public disorder and incitement to take part in an unauthorized assembly, and was also fined HK$5,000 ($638).
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
China wants to repress civil and political liberties in the territory, and Tam's sentencing indicates the deterioration of Hong Kong's constitutional rights. The national security law and the sedition law are being used to tighten control over individuals' speech directly or through self censorship, leaving no room for dissent.
Pro-China narrative
Tam attempted to undermine Hong Kong's government authority by using his fame to promote sedition among students. The 40-month sentence aims at preventing him from threatening China's national security and stability.
