Hong Kong national security law: ex-lawmaker in jail awaiting trial barred from attending father’s funeral, told he can watch online
- Wu Chi-wai’s application to attend in person was rejected on security grounds, Correctional Services Department says
- The former Democratic Party chief – whose father died last month – is facing three separate trials, including one involving a national security law charge
Prison authorities have barred the detained former leader of Hong Kong’s biggest opposition party from attending his father’s funeral and offered to live-stream the ceremony for him instead, triggering a furious response from the family.
The Democratic Party’s Wu Chi-wai, currently in custody awaiting three separate trials, had earlier requested permission to pay tribute to his father – who died last month – in person on Friday.
Rejecting media reports the decision was politically motivated, the Correctional Services Department said subsidiary legislation required officials to take into account factors such as security risks, possible escape routes and the charges involved when processing such requests.
After the funeral’s details were reported, the spokesman said, online calls were issued for members of the public to show up and lend their support.
“After a risk assessment, the Correctional Services Department has decided to reject the application to protect the safety of correctional officers, the person in custody and members of the public,” the spokesman said.