Hong Kong’s Justice Secretary: Government Criticism Allowed Under New Security Law
Hong Kong’s Justice Secretary, Teresa Cheng, has stated that criticism of the government will be permitted under the new national security law, regardless of how sharp or severe it may be.
Limited Exceptions
However, Cheng clarified that there are certain exceptions to this rule. Criticism that:
- Incites secession or subversion
- Endangers national security
- Is malicious or made with intent to cause harm
…may be subject to prosecution.
Purpose of the Law
Cheng emphasized that the law’s primary purpose is to protect national security and prevent acts that could harm Hong Kong or China. She stated that the government has no intention of suppressing legitimate criticism or freedom of expression.
Concerns and Criticism
Despite Cheng’s assurances, some critics have expressed concerns about the potential for the law to be used to silence dissent. They argue that the broad language of the law could allow the government to arbitrarily determine what constitutes endangering national security or malicious criticism.
Ongoing Dialogue
Cheng has acknowledged these concerns and has stated that the government is open to dialogue and feedback. She encouraged the public to engage in constructive discussions about the law and its implications.
The new national security law has been a subject of intense debate and controversy in Hong Kong. It remains to be seen how the law will be interpreted and enforced in practice, and whether it will have a chilling effect on freedom of expression in the city.
Kind regards,
E. Thompson
