Hong Kong Justice Secretary warns online criticism of national security law could violate it, carrying severe penalties.
Hong Kong's Justice Secretary Paul Lam has warned that posting or sharing criticism of the city's new national security law online could be a breach of the legislation, which carries severe penalties for sedition. The "Article 23" law, enacted on June 1, includes penalties of up to life imprisonment for five categories of crime, including treason, insurrection, espionage, sabotage, and external interference. Critics argue that the law has eroded Hong Kong's political opposition and civil society, while authorities claim it is necessary to address legislative gaps and fulfill a constitutional responsibility under the Basic Law, Hong Kong's mini-constitution.
March 24, 2024
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