Four Hong Kong Democrats Freed After Four Years' Imprisonment

Four former Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmakers—Claudia Mo, Jeremy Tam, Kwok Ka-ki, and Gary Fan—were released after serving over four years in prison for their roles in the '47 democrats' case, which stemmed from organizing an unofficial primary election in 2020. The group was charged with conspiracy to commit subversion under Beijing-imposed national security laws, with 45 out of 47 defendants ultimately convicted following a lengthy trial. Their imprisonment and release highlight the shrinking space for civil liberties and democratic opposition in Hong Kong since the 2019 protests and the subsequent crackdown under sweeping security laws. The case drew significant international criticism regarding the fairness of the legal proceedings, though Hong Kong authorities maintain the trials adhered to local law. The early morning release was conducted under heavy security, with former lawmakers leaving prisons out of public view. This event underscores Beijing's continued firm stance on national security and its impact on Hong Kong's political landscape.