Hong Kong: Police ban protests planned for September 14-15 /update 91

Event

Hong Kong police officials issued Letters of Objection on Thursday, September 12, for rallies opposing the administration of Carrie Lam planned on Saturday, September 14, and Sunday, September 15. A family event in Tin Shui Wai was initially scheduled to start at 14:30 (local time) on Saturday, with activists marching from Tin Sau Road Park to the Tin Shui Wai MTR station. The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) had also organized a march in Central on Sunday from East Point Road (Causeway Bay) to Chater Road, starting at 15:00. Activists have filed appeals for both protests. It is possible that the demonstrations will be held even if the ban is not lifted.

Protesters are still planning to hold sit-ins at 19:00 on Friday, September 13, in all shopping malls linked to MTR stations with the intention of disrupting businesses in order to exert pressure on the rail operator to address the death of a protester at Prince Edward station in Mong Kok (Kowloon) on Saturday, August 31. Another airport stress test is scheduled to be held on Saturday around Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), starting at 13:00. Access to and from HKG will likely be disrupted during the protest.

MTR officials announced on September 12 that no overnight service will be available on Friday during the Mid-Autumn Festival due to security concerns. According to the MTR Corporation, the decision was made following a risk assessment conducted with the government. In previous years, train service was provided throughout the night to accommodate travelers visiting family members for the festival. The frequency of trains will be increased from 15:00 on some lines to cope with an anticipated increase in passengers, but service will end at normal hours.

Additional demonstrations are to be expected in Hong Kong over the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the situation fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during periods of protest activity.

Context

On September 4, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. The bill sparked mass protests up to 2 million people throughout Hong Kong since June 9. However, protest actions have continued since the government's announcement, as protesters' demands evolved into a wider pro-democracy movement, calling for government reforms and police accountability over violence.

Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. 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, allow additional time to reach HKG, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.