China’s national security law turns democracy advocacy into crime, Hong Kong activist says

**Hong Kong Activist Convicted Under National Security Law**

*Hong Kong, 29 August 2026* – Three prominent pro‑democracy figures were found guilty of inciting subversion under Hong Kong’s National Security Law, a Beijing‑imposed statute, according to a report by the Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) and the Asian News International (ANI) newswire.

The court hearing, held at the West Kowloon Law Courts Building, involved former Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China leader **Chow Hang‑tung**, veteran activist **Lee Cheuk‑yan**, and former legislator **Albert Ho**. All three were convicted of the offence of inciting subversion. The sentencing phase is scheduled to take place within the next two weeks.

Chow, who represented herself as a barrister, attempted to read a mitigation statement during the hearing. High Court Judge **Alex Lee** interrupted her, indicating that her arguments could be presented at a later stage. In her brief remarks, Chow asserted that the judgment effectively criminalised the pursuit of democratic reforms. She also criticized the political system imposed by Beijing, describing it as one in which a single party claims exclusive authority to represent the people.

The three defendants have been in custody for extended periods pending trial. Chow has been detained for nearly four years, Lee for almost four years, and Ho for approximately three and a half years.

Legal counsel for Ho, **Erik Shum**, submitted a request for a 20‑25 percent reduction in his sentence, citing the need to consider the actual impact of any alleged incitement when determining punishment.

The convictions have drawn criticism from international human‑rights groups and the United Nations, which have expressed concern that the application of the National Security Law suppresses political expression. Hong Kong authorities, however, welcomed the court’s decision.

The case underscores ongoing tensions in Hong Kong over the scope of the National Security Law and its effect on political activism. Further developments are expected after the upcoming sentencing hearing.

Article and image source: hongkongherald.com