Date: August 17, 2017
MAC Press Release No. 59
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) expressed deep regret over a ruling by Hong Kong's High Court today (August 17, 2017) sentencing Hong Kong student activists Joshua Wong Chi-fung, Nathan Law Kwun-chung and Alex Chow Yong-kang to six to eight months imprisonment for occupying Civic Square on the eve of the "Umbrella Movement."
The MAC reiterated that the government's consistent position has been to support the Hong Kong people's pursuit of democracy, freedom, rule of law, and human rights. Hong Kong residents expect reform and democracy. They also expect to be able to choose their own desired life and systems. The Hong Kong government has made a solemn commitment to Hong Kong residents on freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and judicial independence. It should seriously regard the fervent hopes of the people of Hong Kong and patiently engage in sincere dialogue and communication with Hong Kong's pluralistic society.
The MAC indicated that the international community and public opinion in Hong Kong have criticized the ruling by Hong Kong's High Court and expressed concern that "politicization of the judiciary" is undermining Hong Kong's judicial independence and will affect international confidence in Hong Kong's investment environment. Mainland China and the Hong Kong government cannot ignore international opinion. The MAC and the international community will jointly heed follow-up developments.