Hong Kong extradition bill protests: failure to open independent inquiry into June 12 clashes would ‘not be justifiable’
- Former ministers and senior legal figure argue a judge-led probe is vital for taking heat out of extradition row
- Government source insists way to handle issue is through police watchdog, as executive councillor warns statutory inquiry could inflame tensions
Eight former political appointees and a respected legal figure have said an independent inquiry looking into the June 12 clashes between police and protesters is the best way to reduce tensions in Hong Kong.
The legal heavyweight, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it would “not be justifiable” if the government refused to launch a judge-led inquiry, which would examine evidence presented by police, protesters and witnesses from across the community.
“If a commission of inquiry is to be set up, the government could buy time to let tensions arising from the controversy over the extradition bill to cool down because it would take up to nine months for the appointment of commission members, hearings and preparation for the investigation report,” the law professional told the Post.
The inquiry was one of just a few cards the embattled government could play in response to demands of members of the public, who were angered by the government’s handling of the extradition bill.
The bill would have allowed the transfer of fugitives to the mainland and other jurisdictions with which Hong Kong has no extradition deal.
