The pro-independence Hong Kong National Party has not submitted any reply to the government defending itself against a proposed ban, according to the party’s convenor Andy Chan.
The Hong Kong National Party is facing a potential government ban after the police dubbed it a threat to national security. Chan was given until 5pm on September 14 to make his case to the government, a deadline that was extended three times.
Update: Hong Kong pro-independence party submits response to potential ban, hours after gov’t deadline
Chan notified reporters via Whatsapp around noon, adding that his party will not hold a press conference.
In July, the police recommended that the Security Bureau prohibit the operation of HKNP under the Societies Ordinance, citing concerns that the party would resort to violence. If HKNP was banned, it would be the first case of its kind since the city’s 1997 Handover to China.
“I resolutely believe that the prohibition of the operation…. of [HKNP] is necessary in the interests of national security, public safety, public order and the protection of the rights and freedom of others,” wrote Rebecca Lam, an assistant police commissioner, at the time.
Chan’s high-profile speech at the Hong Kong Foreign Correspondents’ Club on August 14 drew a strong reaction from the police, who considered the speech to be additional evidence in their case against Chan and his party.
On Thursday, Chan confirmed separately that he will not appeal his failed election bid, since he had no money and his application for legal aid was rejected.
In February, Chan lost his bid to overturn the 2016 Legislative Council election, in which he was barred from running. He filed an appeal in April but noted that he would have to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees, even with legal aid.
