Hong Kong’s largest pro-democracy party is moving towards disbandment as the city’s freedoms dwindle under the Chinese government’s increasing control. The Democratic Party, founded over 30 years ago by Yeung Sum, was once a major voice for democracy and human rights in the city.
The party’s decision to dissolve comes after China’s crackdown on dissent, including restricted elections, media censorship, and a national security law that has jailed several former lawmakers, including party ex-chairmen. Chinese officials have told party leaders that they need to disband, with some members receiving warnings about consequences if they continue to exist.
In its early years, the Democratic Party was a key player in Hong Kong’s democracy movement, winning over 60% of the popular vote. However, negotiations with Beijing drew backlash and led to the party losing seats and influence. Despite this, the party remained committed to democratic reform until China imposed the national security law.
The crackdown has silenced dissent and forced many pro-democracy groups to close down or disband. The Democratic Party’s own activism has become less prominent, and some observers believe Beijing may no longer consider the party worth cultivating ties with.
The party’s central committee has decided to set up a task force to look into dissolving itself, citing the current political situation and social climate. A meeting on Sunday will decide whether to mandate the leadership to proceed with the dissolution process.
If the party is disbanded, Hong Kong will lose a voice advocating for issues ranging from livelihood concerns to democracy and human rights. Party veteran Yeung Sum believes that the party’s disappearance would be a “huge setback” for the city, but he also sees it as an opportunity for young people who have tasted freedom to continue fighting for democracy in different forms.
The move comes as China continues to tighten its grip on Hong Kong, silencing dissent and undermining the city’s democratic institutions. The future of pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the loss of the Democratic Party would be a significant blow to the city’s fight for democracy.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/hong-kong-china-democratic-party-disbanded-b976f875d830199d929cefc6c3c0dca7