Hong Kong: Police ban August 31 march and rally /update 72

Event

Hong Kong police officials announced on Thursday, August 29, that a rally and march organized by the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) scheduled for Saturday, August 31, has been banned. The protest was initially set to start at Chater Garden (Central) at 15:00 (local time) before participants marched to the Liaison Office. CHRF leaders are reportedly filing an appeal against the letter of objection on Thursday. It is possible that the demonstration will be held without official permission.

Additional demonstrations are planned in the coming days. Veterinary groups plan to gather in Central at Chater Garden from 19:45 until 22:00 on Friday, August 30. Anti-extradition bill supporters are also calling for a territory-wide general strike, scheduled to begin at 13:00 on Monday, September 2, and continuing through Tuesday, September 3. Workers from at least 20 different sectors are expected to participate. This strike will coincide with planned secondary school and university student strikes on Monday and Tuesday. Demonstrations are set to take place in Admiralty and Tsim Sha Tsui on Monday, and in Central on Tuesday.

An August 5 general strike in Hong Kong resulted in severe transportation disruptions, including flight and public transportation cancelations, and violent clashes between protesters and police. Although the upcoming strikes and rallies are intended to pass off peacefully, violent clashes are possible. Severe transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are to be expected throughout Hong Kong.

Context

Protests and mass demonstrations of up to 2 million people have been held in Hong Kong since June 9, in opposition to a controversial bill that would allow authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms and be used to silence dissent and criticism. The bill has been suspended, though not fully withdrawn. Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. On July 21, a group of pro-government men armed with bars and sticks attacked protesters and commuters in Yuen Long, leaving 45 people injured. Activists have also accused the police of using unnecessary force in their attempts to disperse protesters.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.