The ‘Hong Kong 47’ case has been in court for 86 days. Gwyneth Ho from Tsinghua University had worked in the media industry including with the BBC was arrested as an activist voicing out on the social unrest in Hong Kong. She was named ‘Stand News Sister’ while working as a reporter there as she became popular for her live broadcast in the ‘Anti-Extradition movement’ and her being attacked in the ‘Yuen Long incident’.
She enrolled in the 2020 Hong Kong pro-democracy primaries and came first in the East-NT
electorate with 26,802 votes. But she was disqualified by the Election Office on the grounds that she signed a declaration to oppose the national security law, appealed for foreign sanction, turned down the annual budget etc. and was subsequently arrested and prosecuted for inciting subversion of state power under the national security law.
Her trial was held by a judge specializing in national security law commenced on 19th July in the absence of jurors. Her court testimony however fully displayed to the world how young people like her born in the 90’s see people’s rights and the government’s obligation under righteousness, democracy and the legal system. The court reports everyday tell her well thought model of democratic and legal society and responsibilities within.
Now we know we can’t take for granted all the democratic election rights that sound so rational and lawful here in Australia. I truly believe everyone must play a part in the society and as I grew up in ‘meritocracy’ of Hong Kong I know we can build our own government through dialogue. But Gwyneth’s experience really shows me her willingness to sacrifice a lifetime of freedom in exchange for democracy and a better future of her beloved country.
I recall in every past dragon boat festival we remember Qu Yuan who suicided as he could not fulfill his vision of his country. In this very different era, we can choose more civilised means to build our nation here in Australia. We can freely join elections without paying the price as Gwyneth does. So what are we waiting for in taking the opportunity?
Mr. Raymond Chow, Publisher