HONG KONG – Four Hong Kong democracy activists were set free from custody on Friday after prosecutors pulled back an appeal against a court decision to grant them bail in a controversial national security case after back-to-back hearings this week.
The four are part of a group of 47 activists charged with conspiracy to commit subversion in a case that has triggered global concern that Beijing is using the security law to crush dissent and wipe out meaningful opposition in the former British colony.
The case is the most sweeping use yet of the law, which imposes punishments of up to life in prison for serious charges, including subversion.
The 47 activists, aged 23 to 64, are accused of mobilising and participating in an unofficial, non-binding primary poll last July, which according to authorities was part of a “vicious plot” to “overthrow” the government.
The vote was aimed at meticulously choosing the strongest opposition candidates for a Legislative Council election that the government later postponed, citing the coronavirus.
Beijing is aiming for a major overhaul of Hong Kong’s electoral system and Legislative Council elections will likely be postponed again, to September 2022.
The other 15 were granted bail under strict conditions, but remain in custody after government prosecutors appealed against the decision.
On Friday, appeals for Clarisse Yeung, Lawrence Lau, Hendrick Lui and Mike Lam were pulled out.
Bail ranging from HK$80,000 ($10,300) to HK$1 million was granted to them, on condition that they surrender all travel documents, follow a curfew, do not use speech and action that is likely to pose threat to national security, or organise or take part in elections or contact foreign officials.
The other 11 will make their appearances in three batches in court on Saturday for the prosecutors’ appeal to be heard.
For the others, which include prominent activists Owen Chow, Lester Shum, Wu Chi-wai, Eddie Chu, Alvin Yeung, Claudia Mo, Gwyneth Ho and Prince Wong, the case was adjourned until May 31. Some are appealing against the decision.
Hong Kong laws restrict media coverage of the content of bail hearings.
