HONG KONG — Tony Chung, an activist who faced charges related to advocating for Hong Kong independence and became one of the first individuals convicted under the national security law, has fled to Britain to seek political asylum. Chung’s departure follows his conviction in 2020 for secession and money laundering, resulting in a 43-month prison sentence.
In a series of Instagram posts on Friday, Chung revealed the close surveillance he experienced after his release from prison. Authorities demanded regular meetings to report his activities, conversations, and associations, offering to pay him for information on others as proof of his rehabilitation. They also suggested he relocate to mainland China. Chung claimed he was coerced into signing a non-disclosure document, preventing him from seeking legal assistance or disclosing his situation.
Hong Kong authorities have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Chung’s case is emblematic of the increasing challenges faced by Hong Kong dissidents, signaling a significant erosion of promised freedoms since the territory’s handover to China in 1997. The national security law, imposed by Beijing in response to the 2019 pro-democracy protests, has been lauded by Chinese and Hong Kong officials for restoring stability.
Earlier in December, pro-democracy activist Agnes Chow, now in Canada, reported similar pressure from authorities, including the return of her confiscated passport under certain conditions, including a visit to mainland China.
Chung, the former convenor of the disbanded pro-independence student organization Studentlocalism, was arrested in 2020 near the U.S. consulate in Hong Kong. Reports suggested he sought protection there.
Under a year-long supervision order by the Correctional Services Department after his release, Chung was prohibited from public speaking. In September, national security authorities asked him to travel to mainland China, which he declined. Facing health issues due to mental stress, he obtained permission for a holiday in Okinawa, Japan, during which he sought help from overseas organizations. Chung arrived in Britain from Japan on Wednesday, officially seeking asylum.
In his statement, Chung expressed a heavy heart but pledged to advocate for Hong Kong as a “Hong Konger in exile,” emphasizing the resilience of the city’s people in the pursuit of freedom and democracy.