Hong Kong: MTR closes stations ahead of protest in Tsuen Wan August 25 /update 66

Event

Anti-government protesters have been granted permission by the police to march from Kwai Chung Sports Ground to Tsuen Wan Park on Sunday, August 25, after previously being denied by the authorities. The demonstration will begin at 14:30 (local time) and the march is set to end at 19:00. A rally in Tsuen Wan Park has been granted permission until 20:00, although demonstrators may continue to gather after the approved time. MTR officials announced that the Kwai Fong, Tsuen Wan, and Tsuen Wan West stations will be closed from 13:30 to avoid possible facility damage. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected around the protest sites. While the march is expected to be peaceful, clashes between police officers and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Another march is also scheduled to take place on Sunday in Central. Participants are set to gather at Edinburgh Place at 14:00 before marching to the Chief Executive’s Office. Then the demonstrators will walk to the Hong Kong Police Headquarters and end the rally at 17:00.   

On Saturday, August 31, protesters will hold a rally at Chater Garden as of 14:00 and will later proceed to the Liaison Office.

Heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated around all demonstrations. Clashes between security personnel and demonstrators cannot be ruled out.

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 The bill has been suspended, though not fully withdrawn.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 and those traveling via HKG are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations, prepare for lingering flight disruptions, and contact their airlines to confirm or modify flight reservations.