Hong Kong Court to Sentence 45 Activists

A Hong Kong court is poised to sentence 45 pro-democracy activists for conspiracy to commit subversion, stemming from their involvement in an unofficial primary election in 2020. This unprecedented case is viewed as a significant escalation in Beijing's crackdown on political dissent in the city, with sentences potentially ranging from several years to life imprisonment. The defendants had aimed to challenge government authority by securing a legislative majority to influence budget decisions. Public interest remains high, with many residents queuing for court access as security measures are tightened. The U.S. has condemned the trial as politically motivated, while Hong Kong authorities defend the legal process as impartial. Critics argue that these actions effectively dismantle the pro-democracy movement that once thrived under the 'one country, two systems' framework.