EditorialPath to rehabilitation of those arrested in 2019 unrest is welcome

The fate of thousands of protesters arrested in the 2019 turmoil had long faded from public attention until recently when it was disclosed that they were being given a second chance under a special rehabilitation programme. The move is not just a welcome step towards offering them a path back to normalcy but also towards narrowing the deep political divide left by the unrest. The leniency towards some 7,000 people arrested but not prosecuted is not about excusing wrongdoings. As security chief Chris Tang Ping-keung said, the authorities would still “act in accordance with the law” when handling arrestees whose alleged crimes are backed by clear evidence. But the programme, under the Security Bureau, opens the door for those who show repentance to move forward.

The initiative offers career planning, internships and trips to the mainland to enhance understanding of the country. It has been operating in a low-key manner for one to two years, which officials say is to spare participants from doxxing and bullying. “There are still a lot of people in society not willing to see them rehabilitated, so that they could exploit the arrestees’ hatred to stand in opposition to the government and endanger [national] security,” Tang said, adding that it is now time for more people to know about the programme.

The Guangzhou-born artiste has faced sharp criticism from some fans who view his renewed patriotism as betrayal. But he has also gained support from others who encouraged him, saying that this is the right way forward. Cheung has set an inspiring example in correcting himself. His courage and efforts should be appreciated.

The rehabilitation programme offers a practical way to reconcile and rebuild. For a society that is still haunted by deep political scars and division, it is time to leave the baggage behind and move on.