Hong Kong’s security chief, Chris Tang, has strongly criticized the London-based rights group Hong Kong Watch for its recent statement signed by 86 organizations, expressing concerns over the potential human rights implications of forthcoming security legislation in the city.
The proposed legislation, known as Article 23, aims to criminalize activities such as treason, insurrection, and theft of state secrets, among other national security offenses. While the government frames it as closing loopholes in the 2020 National Security Law, critics like Hong Kong Watch argue that the bill’s vague definitions could criminalize peaceful exercise of human rights.
In a joint statement, the 86 organizations raised alarm over the potential erosion of due process and fair trial rights for Hong Kong residents under the proposed law. They called on governments to publicly oppose the legislation and urged for sanctions against those responsible for its implementation.
Tang condemned Hong Kong Watch and the other signatories, accusing them of employing “gangster tactics” and being “anti-China organizations seeking to disrupt Hong Kong.” He dismissed their criticisms as slander and intimidation, aligning with his previous assertions that recent pro-democracy movements were instigated by foreign forces.
Regarding concerns about media freedom, Tang refuted claims that the law would target media organizations, labeling such reports as false. He singled out Radio Free Asia, characterizing it as a “foreign force” misleading the public. However, RFA has not publicly responded to Tang’s allegations.
Tang emphasized the public’s purported support for the Article 23 legislation, dismissing claims that it would empower the police to detain individuals arbitrarily as attempts to intimidate Hong Kong residents. He assured that media outlets deemed to be deliberately slandering the government would be held accountable under the new law.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive John Lee reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to advancing the legislation swiftly, signaling a determination to push through the proposed law despite criticism and opposition.
As tensions escalate over the potential ramifications of Article 23, both proponents and opponents of the legislation are gearing up for a contentious debate in Hong Kong’s Legislative Council.