Hong Kong: Thousands hold vigil for late student protester in Tamar Park November 9 /update 148

Event

Thousands in Hong Kong held a police-authorized vigil for a late student protester in Tamar Park on Saturday night (local time), November 9, calling for "revenge" after the student protester suffered fatal injuries in a fall from a high-rise building on Monday, November 4, while police were dispersing protesters. The rally, attended by some 7500 people, was held peacefully.

Further demonstrations are expected to be held through Wednesday, November 13. A 40-hour prayer meeting is also set to take place at Edinburgh Place from 08:00 on Monday, November 11, to 09:00 on Tuesday, November 12, and from 07:00-21:00 on Wednesday, November 13. Another rally is expected to be held outside Kwai Chung Plaza at 19:00 on November 12.

Demonstrations are expected to continue over the near term and may occur with little warning. Rail disruptions are also possible in the coming days and weeks. Up-to-date information on service information and station closures can be found on the MTR website.

A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the political situation in the city fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during all periods of protest activity. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

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 of 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 disruptions to transportation and business around protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.