Date: April 24, 2019
MAC Press Release No. 46
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (April 24, 2019) expressed deep regret over the conviction and sentencing of participants in the “Occupy Central” movement, a peaceful protest by the people of Hong Kong seeking universal suffrage in a democratic election.
Civic movement by the people of Hong Kong in pursuit of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights is a priceless democratic asset in Hong Kong. It is also a driving force for social progress. Those in power should view positively such actions in the spirit of the times and respect and protect the people's political rights. Blind worries and fears, leading even to deterrence by punishment, as well as unilateral denial of the right of civil disobedience, not only hinder the correction of defects in the political system, but also miss the opportunity to improve the country's morbid constitution.
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) exposes its own shortcomings by emphasizing the positive stories of "one country, two systems" on the one hand, while on other encroaching on Hong Kong’s democratic autonomy, freedom, and human rights. The world is closely watching the implementation of "one country, two systems" in Hong Kong. The people of Taiwan also will not be deceived. The MAC calls on relevant parties to honor pledges to Hong Kong under the Basic Law on "one country, two systems" and "Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy," for it is consistent with the principle of the rule of law and the basic way to maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and development.