Hong Kong justice department warns insulting judges online could amount to contempt of court
Warning comes amid a spate of online attacks against judge who jailed independence activist Edward Leung
Personal attacks or insulting comments about judges – even over social media – could undermine Hong Kong’s judicial independence and constitute contempt of court, the justice department said on Thursday.
In one case, internet users dug up information about Pang and made disparaging comments about her and her family, including references to her being the widow of a police officer, and wishing her “retribution” and “trouble”.
In a statement, the Department of Justice reminded the public to respect the rule of law and judicial independence, which it said was “one of the most important facets of the rule of law”.
“Whilst members of the public are entitled to, within the permissible legal boundaries, express one’s opinion rationally or engage in informed discussions about the court’s decision and related matters, this has to be done within the limit permitted by the law and with respect for judicial independence,” a spokesman said.
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The online attacks attracted the concern of the judiciary on Wednesday, which then passed the case to the department for follow up.
“Personal or scandalous attacks or insulting comments on judges or acts undermining judicial independence or in contempt of court are absolutely forbidden,” the department added. “It is to be remembered that an accused is entitled to lodge an appeal against his sentence if he is dissatisfied with it.”
The Department of Justice said it had referred the matter to law enforcement agencies and would work closely with them to assess the case fairly in accordance with the Prosecution Code, applicable legal principles and relevant evidence.
This is not the first case of public vitriol directed against a judge following a controversial judgment.
The incident prompted Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma Tao-li to warn the public against “unwarranted” or “arbitrary” criticism of the courts. “Any criticisms which are levelled against the judiciary should be on an informed basis” and “any unwarranted criticisms made against the rule of law cannot be of any benefit to the community,” he said.