Hong Kong invokes new law to cancel passports of 6 overseas activists
NBCMay 30
Hong Kong Police Place HK$1M Bounty on Six Activists
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Above: Pro-government supporters wave the flags of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region outside the West Kowloon Court on Nov. 19, 2024. Image copyright: Lam Yik/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
Hong Kong police have set a HK$1M (over $128K) bounty each on six more activists and canceled the passports of seven others based abroad for allegedly breaching the National Security Law.
The six activists added to the list of people wanted for allegedly violating the law, also known as Article 23, include political commentator Chung Kim-wah and former actor Joseph Tay. The seven activists who have fled Hong Kong include former lawmakers Ted Hui and Dennis Kwok.
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
The Chinese government's reach extends far beyond Hong Kong's borders, pursuing dissidents with chilling determination. From threatening even congressional candidates to surveillance to intimidation — the message is clear. Even in democratic nations, those who dare speak against Beijing's authority must look over their shoulders, while back home, Hong Kong methodically strips away their citizenship rights.
Pro-China narrative
Hong Kong's actions against anti-China activists signal a firm commitment to order and national security. Its National Security Law is essential for closing loopholes that enabled chaos. By tackling illegal activities carried out in the guise of democracy, these measures reinforce the rule of law, ensure stability, and uphold Hong Kong's role as an integral part of China, securing its future within "one country, two systems."
