Pro-democracy activist Leung Kwok-hung was assaulted with a sharp object during a demonstration at China’s Liaison Office on Thursday. The alleged perpetrator said he was helping police, according to local media.

Vice-chair of League of Social Democrats “Long Hair” Leung Kwok-hung was stabbed in his waist with a metal chisel during a demonstration at around 3pm in Sai Wan. According to police, an 81-year-old male surnamed Wong was subdued and arrested on the scene on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Raphael Wong and Leung Kwok-hung. Photo: Leung Kwok-hung, via Facebook.

The assailant told police officers: “I am here to help you out” as he was arrested, Stand News reported.

The veteran activist was conscious when sent to Queen Mary Hospital.

Chair of the party Raphael Wong told the press that he regretted the incident: “The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office and Hong Kong Liaison Office always call protesters rioters. How will they respond to violent acts right in front of the Liaison Office?” Wong asked.

Metal chisel used in the assault. Photo: Leung Kwok-hung, via Facebook.

Leung told the press that he discharged from hospital at around 4:30pm despite a doctor suggesting he should stay for further observation: “The chisel appeared to be rusty so I went to the hospital for treatment.”

When asked by a reporter if he felt intimidated by the assault, Leung said he would carry on with his activism: “Nothing to worry about… Those who need unemployment relief are in deeper water,” he said in reference to the economic downturn.

Beijing intervention

Leung’s party and the Labour Party were demonstrating against the authorities’ strongly worded criticism of pro-democracy lawmaker Dennis Kwok. The group protested against China’s intervention in Hong Kong affairs, which they said in a press release had undermined the city’s high degree of autonomy.

Leung Kwok-hung shows his wound outside the hospital. RTHK screenshot.

Kwok, who has been chairing House Committee meetings at the legislature since last October, was accused of filibustering as the new committee chair has not yet been elected. “This kind of malicious filibustering behaviour amounts to a blasphemy of the duties of legislators,” said a Liaison Office spokesperson.

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Rachel Wong previously worked as a documentary producer and academic researcher. She has a BA in Comparative Literature and European Studies from the University of Hong Kong. She has contributed to A City Made by People and The Funambulist, and has an interest in cultural journalism and gender issues.