Winnie Yu, former chairperson of the Hospital Authority Employees Alliance, formed a union and led a strike at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She demanded that Hong Kong close its borders to limit the spread of the virus and urged the Hospital Authority to provide frontline medical staff with adequate protective equipment. She spoke out to defend public healthcare workers and protect the wider community.
In court, Yu stated that she participated in the pro-democracy “primary election” to achieve universal suffrage as promised in Hong Kong’s Basic Law. She hoped to enter the Legislative Council, break the political deadlock, and create more space for the voices of ordinary people to be heard.
Leung Kwok-hung, better known as “Long Hair,” former chairperson of the League of Social Democrats, has dedicated his life to advocating for universal suffrage, fairness, and social justice, especially for grassroots workers and vulnerable communities.
In 2020, ahead of the Legislative Council election, Yu, Leung, and 45 other pro-democracy figures organised an unofficial primary election to select candidates. As a result, all 47 were charged with “conspiracy to subvert state power” under the National Security Law. Yu and Leung were each sentenced to 6 years and 9 months in prison. This week, 13 of the defendants, including Yu and Leung, appeared in court to appeal their convictions and sentences.
Senior Counsel Robert Pang, who represents Yu, argued that the term “unlawful means” should only refer to actual criminal acts, such as “unlawful assembly,” “illegal entry,” or “unlawful sexual intercourse.” He argued that without a clear understanding of what constitutes “unlawful” behaviour, ordinary citizens cannot be expected to avoid breaching the law.
He also argued that Winnie was repeatedly interrupted by the judge while giving evidence, preventing her from fully explaining her “five demands” and voting principles. He described her as being “shut out” and stressed that, facing such serious charges, defendants must be allowed to express their motives and stance.
Following submissions from both the prosecution and the defence, the judge adjourned the court and indicated that a ruling would be delivered in nine months’ time.
Under an authoritarian system, appealing against harsh sentences and convictions is an act of defiance and courage, a determination to stand up for justice even when the odds are against you. They are not only defending themselves but also protecting the hopes of every Hongkonger who still believes in justice.
As time passes, we will not forget. Supporting the appeal of the 47 is also about standing with every Hongkonger who still believes in justice and freedom of expression.
As Leung said passionately in court: “May Hongkongers never forget: fight for democracy, defend justice!”