Security chief says sedition case sentences reflect seriousness of offense, considers appeal

Hong Kong’s security chief Chris Tang Ping-keung said on Tuesday that the court sentences handed down to defendants in the city’s largest national security trial reflected the seriousness of their offense.

Forty-five people on Tuesday were sentenced to up to 10 years in prison after they either pleaded guilty to or were convicted of conspiracy to commit subversion over the 2020 Legislative Council elections.

The defendants were prosecuted in 2021 for their roles in an unofficial primary election under the 2020 national security law. They were accused of attempting to paralyze the government and force Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor to resign by aiming to win a legislative majority and use it to block government budgets indiscriminately.

Read more: 45 activists jailed in subversion case, with longest term being 10 years

Speaking to the press this afternoon, Tang said the court’s decision today reflected the seriousness of their crimes, clearly conveying to society that any acts endangering national security will not be tolerated.

Individual cases will be reviewed for consideration of an appeal, said Tang. He also mentioned that the defendants have caused endless harm and suffering to Hong Kong society and its citizens by taking issues to the streets.

The security chief said the convicted disregarded the well-being of Hong Kong citizens for their personal agendas - some having revolutionary implications.

He emphasized that national security risks still persist, with external forces seeking opportunities to destabilize Hong Kong.

When asked about arrangements for individuals who were not prosecuted, Tang stressed that arrests and prosecutions would be made based on evidence, regardless of the individual's identity or background.