Hong Kong tertiary institutions shy away from calls to follow Chinese University head’s comments over condemning alleged police brutality
- HKUST and PolyU say they ‘condemn violence in any form’ while Lingnan adds it will provide hotline; others decline to comment or have not responded
- Controversy comes after open letter by CUHK vice-chancellor, who said he would condemn ‘any proven case’ of police misconduct
Tertiary institutions in Hong Kong have shied away from calls to follow the example of the head of Chinese University, who said under intense pressure from students that he would condemn “any proven case” of police brutality.
Vice-chancellor Rocky Tuan Sung-chi issued the statement last week in an open letter after emotional dialogue sessions with students accusing the force of misconduct amid the months-long protest crisis in the city.
Tuan’s comments prompted students from other universities to make similar calls to management, including from the University of Hong Kong, where 2,600 signatures from students, staff and alumni have been collected.
In response, two other universities – Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Polytechnic University – told the Post they “condemn violence in any form” as it would only bring more conflict and disagreement, and would not restore order to society.
Both universities added that they would step up counselling and guidance for students with emotional needs.
Lingnan University officials said they would provide an emergency hotline, as well as legal assistance and counselling for students. Education University declined to comment, while Baptist University and City University have not responded by press time.