HONG KONG: The anger in Hong Kong against the Chinese regime has not gone away despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Extradition Bill sparked protests in Hong Kong last year giving a shot in the arm.
There have been sporadic protests throughout winter in Hong Kong. And even with the coronavirus concerns, a major rally on July 1 could be one of the first major test of the people’s ongoing public support this year.
A strong turnout can be an indication that Hong Kong is bracing for yet another summer of discontent.
Police have arrested over a dozen prominent lawmakers and pro-democracy activists, in what has been seen as a move denounced by human rights organization, and politicians in the United States.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo denounced the arrests of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as ‘deeply concerning’.
Founder of the Hong Kong’s Democratic Party, Martin Lee, who is one of those arrested on Saturday, said the move gave a message that Beijing will rule Hong Kong with an iron fist.
Geng Shuang, a spokesman for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated “Regarding the lawful arrest operation conducted by Hong Kong SAR police, a handful of Western politicians are piling unwarranted criticism and even demanding the withdrawal of charges.”
July 1 — date of Hong Kong’s 1997 handover to British rule — has been a day of protest, with tens of thousands taking to streets every year.
Now the question is what would be the turnout this summer? It depends on a multitude of factors. (With inputs from Agencies)
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