Hong Kong Condemns Father of Pro-Democracy Activist in Landmark National Security Case
HONG KONG – In a move condemned by international rights groups, a Hong Kong court on Tuesday convicted the father of U.S.-based pro-democracy activist Anna Kwok under the city’s newly enacted national security law, often referred to as Article 23. The case marks the first time a family member of an activist living abroad has been convicted under the controversial legislation, raising concerns about the expanding reach of Hong Kong’s crackdown on dissent.
Kwok’s father was found guilty of attempting to deal with funds linked to an “absconder,” a designation applied to his daughter by Hong Kong authorities. The conviction centers around allegations he attempted to access his daughter’s insurance funds.
“This conviction is a disturbing escalation in the Hong Kong government’s repressive use of ‘Article 23’,” said Joey Siu, spokesperson for Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas, in a statement. “Her father faces jail solely for an alleged attempt to access insurance funds belonging to his daughter. This apparently politically motivated conviction…sets a dangerous precedent, designed to terrify and silence others who continue to speak out about Hong Kong issues from overseas.”
Anna Kwok, a vocal critic of the Chinese government’s increasing control over Hong Kong, is currently based in the United States. She is wanted by Hong Kong authorities on charges of “colluding with foreign forces.” A HK$1 million (approximately $128,000 USD) bounty has been offered for information leading to her capture, as part of a wider effort targeting 34 exiled activists.
The Hong Kong Secretary for Security, Chris Tang, invoked Article 23 powers in late 2024 to cancel Kwok’s passport, declare her an “absconder,” and restrict her financial dealings within Hong Kong. This action, along with the recent conviction of her father, underscores the government’s willingness to pursue activists and their families, even beyond the city’s borders.
The passage of the National Security Law in June 2020 and the subsequent enactment of Article 23 in March 2024 have dramatically curtailed freedoms in Hong Kong. Rights groups report a significant decline in freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. According to a 2023 report by the U.S. State Department, the National Security Law has led to the arrest of over 150 individuals and the closure of numerous civil society organizations.
The case has drawn international scrutiny, with observers warning that it could have a chilling effect on Hong Kongers living abroad and their families. The conviction raises questions about the extent to which Hong Kong authorities will pursue individuals and their relatives for perceived political offenses.
Amnesty International is calling for the immediate release of Kwok’s father and all others accused of assisting activists in exile, unless evidence of internationally recognized crimes can be presented. The organization argues that the conviction is politically motivated and violates fundamental human rights principles.
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