Two Hong Kong localists down, and two more at risk after Beijing ruling

Beijing’s intervention in the oath-taking controversy not only could effectively disqualify two localist lawmakers, it may fuel possible legal challenges to unseat at least two others who have been sworn in.

The ruling could also have a bearing on election petitions filed by two independence advocates who were barred from taking part in the Legislative Council elections.

Watch: Hong Kong localists rush into the Legco chamber to retake the oath

While Beijing says its interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law regarding oath-taking requirements would have retrospective effect, Hong Kong officials say it would not automatically disqualify anyone and it would be left to local courts to apply the ruling should any legal challenge arise.

The interpretation issued on Monday elaborates what would constitute a valid oath and defines what “swearing in accordance with law” means: lawmakers and public officials must read out the prescribed oath “sincerely”, “accurately and completely”.

A person deliberately failing to do so will be considered as “declining” to take the oath under the Oaths and Declarations Ordinance – and face disqualification. He or she would not be allowed to retake the oath.