National security law: Chinese state-run media blasts new Hong Kong Bar Association head for two days in a row over comments
- People’s Daily accuses chairman Paul Harris of being ‘arrogant’ for suggesting he would seek amendments to the Beijing-imposed legislation
- China Daily says Harris appears to be out of touch with ‘political reality’
One commentary, published in People’s Daily on Monday and titled “Do not let the political prejudice of the Bar Association ruin Hong Kong’s rule of law”, accused the body of becoming “more politicised in recent years, making use of its influence in society to abet activities that cause mayhem in Hong Kong”.
The article was referring to the association’s statements issued during the 2019 social unrest that were critical of the police’s handling of protesters.
The piece went on to say the move by the legal body was a departure from the spirit of the rule of law and a challenge to the essence of the “one country, two systems” policy.
A separate commentary on China Daily on Tuesday, titled “Time for Bar Association to embrace political realism”, stated: “For any groups or parties to play a role in Hong Kong’s socioeconomic and political development, they must recognise and respect China’s sovereign powers over the region.