Beijing’s office in charge of Hong Kong affairs has criticised the establishment of a new political party advocating for the city’s independence. It said that its establishment violates the country’s constitution, the Basic Law and is a threat to national security.
The State Council’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office issued a statement through the official Xinhua news agency on Wednesday, following the announcement of the formation of Hong Kong National Party on Monday. The party said it had six major items on its agenda, including the establishment of an independent and free “Hong Kong Republic” and the abolition of the Basic Law. It also claimed that the Companies Registry has refused to register it “because of political reasons”.
“The action to establish a pro-independence organisation by an extremely small group of people in Hong Kong has harmed the country’s sovereignty, security, endangered the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, and the core interests of Hong Kong” a spokesman for the office told Xinhua.
“It is firmly opposed by all Chinese people, including some seven million Hong Kong people. It is also a serious violation of the country’s constitution, Hong Kong’s Basic Law and the relevant existing laws.”
The office said it believed the Hong Kong government will handle the matter according to law.
‘Undermine’ Hong Kong’s prosperity
The Hong Kong government also issued a statement on the issue.
“Any suggestion that Hong Kong should be independent or any movement to advocate such ‘independence’ is against the Basic Law, and will undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong and impair the interest of the general public… The SAR Government will take action according to the law,” it said.
‘Ridiculous’
But the party was not moved by the statements.
“A constitution is used to define government power and structure, to serve as a proclamation on how citizens are to be protected,” a statement from the party read. “It is ridiculous to accuse citizens of violating the constitution”.
The party said it would cause a “constitutional and political crisis” if one was prosecuted for charges such as inciting treason based on speech.
“We will not be afraid of such draconian laws, we will fight till the end, and push forward Hong Kong independence with Hong Kong people,” the party said.
