Hong Kong Court Denies Tiananmen Vigil Leader’s Request
On Monday, November 3, 2025, a Hong Kong court issued a ruling that resonated deeply within the city’s pro-democracy community. The court rejected an attempt by Chow Hang-tung, a well-known human rights lawyer and former organizer of the annual Tiananmen Square vigil, to dismiss her indictment under Hong Kong’s national security law.
This decision, covered by the Associated Press and local media, represents a significant chapter in an ongoing legal case that underscores the city’s evolving political environment since Beijing implemented the national security law in 2020.
Details of the Charges
Chow Hang-tung, along with activists Albert Ho and Lee Cheuk-yan, faces accusations of inciting subversion. Under the national security law, this charge carries the potential for a life sentence. Prosecutors claim they encouraged others to unlawfully oppose the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party.
The indictment is linked to their involvement in organizing Hong Kong’s longstanding vigil commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown against pro-democracy demonstrators in Beijing.
"The court rejected an attempt by Chow Hang-tung, a prominent human rights barrister and former organizer of the annual Tiananmen Square vigil, to quash her indictment under the city’s sweeping national security law."
"They incited others to challenge the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party by unlawful means, a charge stemming from their roles in organizing the city’s decades-old vigil commemorating the 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy protesters."
Impact on Hong Kong’s Pro-Democracy Movement
The ruling highlights the intensifying legal pressures faced by pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong and signals continued enforcement of the national security law against dissent.
Chow’s legal battle has become symbolic of the broader struggle over political freedoms in the city since Beijing's 2020 legislation imposed strict new controls.
Summary
This case epitomizes the tightening restrictions on dissent in Hong Kong, demonstrating the national security law’s broad application to suppress pro-democracy activities.
Author's note: The court’s decision to uphold Chow Hang-tung’s indictment marks a critical moment reflecting the narrowing space for activism under the national security law in Hong Kong.