The Hong Kong parliament is now reserved for Beijing supporters, the opposition

“This is a very sad day for Hong Kong,” said Emily Law, a former MP and Democrat. “The electoral system has been completely dismantled. They are free from opposition because under this system, I do not think this self-respecting person with much repression and control would want to participate.”

Opposition in Hong Kong has already been silenced due to a controversial security law. These include a ban on foreign intervention, undermining operations and secessionist efforts in Hong Kong. In practice, the law helps to ease the voices of dissatisfaction in the motel. Since the law came into force, many members of the opposition have been arrested, detained or fled.

Alarm hours

Last year was still summer Mass protests In Hong Kong, but according to reporter Sjord den Das it is not going to happen this time. “It’s deadly because of that security law.”

Hong Kong’s top executive Gary Lam is expected to hold elections today, more than a year after they were postponed, arguing that the corona virus would not allow it.

Hong Kong was part of China, but as a former British colony it enjoyed more democratic freedoms than the mainland. In 2019, massive pro-democracy protests culminated in violence between activists and police. In the elections held later that year, pro-democratic candidates won overwhelmingly, raising alarm bells in Beijing.

‘Attack on democracy’

Recent developments have led to international criticism of Beijing. British Foreign Secretary Rob has accused China of repeatedly violating its Hong Kong agreements. Previously, the British government paved the way for Hong Kongers to quickly apply for a British passport. London expects about 300,000 people to come to the UK from Hong Kong in the coming years, but estimates are also very high.

Earlier, the European Union, New Zealand and the United States also criticized the developments. EU foreign policy chief Borel said China would remove the “one country, two organizations” policy agreed with the British. US Secretary of State Blingen described it as an attack on democracy.