Press Release in Response to the Stand News Judgment

The Independent Committee for Hong Kong Advocacy strongly condemns the recent conviction of Stand News editors Chung Pui-kuen and Patrick Lam on charges of sedition. This ruling represents yet another blatant assault on the core values of press freedom and free expression in Hong Kong, further deepening the oppression of the people of Hong Kong.

The sedition law, a remnant of colonial-era legislation, has been weaponised to target independent journalism that dares to challenge the Chinese Communist Party’s hegemony. This verdict is an affront to Hong Kong’s international obligations, particularly under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees the fundamental freedoms of speech and press.

We call on the international community to hold the Chinese government and their cronies in Hong Kong accountable for their continued violations of these commitments. The right to self-determination and the exercise of political and civil rights in Hong Kong must be safeguarded. We stand in solidarity with the Stand News editors and all who continue to speak out in the face of repression.

The Independent Committee for Hong Kong Advocacy remains resolute in its mission to advocate for democracy, freedom, and the right to self-determination in Hong Kong. This verdict will not silence the voices of those who seek justice and liberty.

Media enquiries:

For media enquiries, please contact Tony Chung and Rex at media@ichka.org.