Banning separatist party must be done within the local law
While the stated aim of the Hong Kong National Party breaches the sovereignty of “one country”, any move to outlaw it must be in accordance with the local law that “two systems” allows
The Hong Kong government is controversially seeking to outlaw a pro-independence party for the first time. From the “one country” perspective, there is clearly no room for political bodies whose aims are fundamentally in breach of sovereignty and national unity.
But our “two systems” makes it imperative for the government to ensure that all actions are taken in accordance with the local law.
The crackdown comes at a time when the perceived pro-independence movement has become less active. Many people might not even be aware of its existence had the government not taken action against the Hong Kong National Party, which was established in 2016 with the aim to build “an independent and free Republic of Hong Kong”.
That the move to outlaw the party comes before the enactment of the national security law under Article 23 of the Basic Law has fuelled further speculation. What is clear, though, is that the government is getting tougher against separatism.
Politically, the zero-tolerance approach is to be expected. Beijing has increasingly been putting more emphasis on “one country”.
Addressing the city’s 20th reunification anniversary last year, President Xi Jinping made clear that the red line of sovereignty must not be crossed. Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor has also said she would not tolerate anyone breaching the red line.