A truce, at least for district polls, could show the way forward
- Escalating violence between radicals and police, coupled with government inaction, is a recipe for disaster; right-thinking people must give peace a chance
The need for a truce has never been more evident as Hong Kong reaches a highly critical moment. Over the past two days, police and radical activists at Polytechnic University have been locked in some of the most violent clashes since social unrest erupted in June: an officer was struck by an arrow; a footbridge and a flyover were set on fire; and volunteers trying to clear debris from roads had bricks thrown at them. The situation has become so dangerous that all sides must step back before it worsens further. This will not be easy as emotions are running high and the atmosphere is so politically charged. But as injuries on both sides continue to mount and lives are still at risk, concerted efforts must be made to de-escalate.
Police surround occupied campus after day of fierce clashes with radicals
PolyU and its surroundings became the latest battleground following a week of clashes at other university campuses and the areas around them. What sets it apart is the intensity of the actions. Masked occupiers, many of whom are believed to be outsiders, were reportedly unable to retreat as police laid siege to the campus next to the city’s key Cross-Harbour Tunnel. The stand-off could easily spiral out of control, and it is in the interest of those on the campus to withdraw. But questions have been raised as to whether they will be allowed to leave safely and, despite repeated police warnings for them to go, some who risked tear gas and water cannons to escape were arrested. Police said they used force as some rioters threw petrol bombs when retreating. It is important that both sides exercise restraint. Elsewhere, flash mobs continued to cause mayhem by blocking roads, with live rounds being fired by police in at least two locations. Over the weekend, journalists were attacked during police operations. The escalation in tensions is worrying.
Nearly 4,500 Hongkongers arrested over protests so far
The government, however, is not responding with a sense of urgency. After a week of traffic chaos and violence, ministers held a joint press conference last Friday and yesterday, and an interdepartmental task force has been set up to coordinate efforts to return the city to normal. There were also suggestions that officials and lawmakers work together to clear the roadblocks put up by radicals. Ironically, citizens had to initiate their own clearance operations, and even members of the People’s Liberation Army came out of their Kowloon Tong barracks to help. This solidarity was in stark contrast to government inaction.
Live round fired near Hong Kong campus, as police warn of mass arrests
Sunday’s district council elections are now just days away. It will be difficult for the polls to be held as planned if chaos and violence are still gripping the city. With officials reluctant to take more proactive steps for dialogue and reconciliation, a peaceful and orderly election could perhaps be a turning point. It is time for a ceasefire to give peace a chance.
