17 Sep 2019 | 05:49 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Further protests planned September 17, 21 /update 94
Activists call for several protests on September 17 and 21; heightened security presence and associated disruptions expected
Event
Activists on social media have called for a protest on Tuesday, September 17, in solidarity with a protester who was injured and arrested at a demonstration on Sunday, September 15. Participants plan to gather at the Eastern Magistrates' Court (Hong Kong Island) at 14:30 (local time).
Protesters are also planning several demonstrations on Saturday, September 21, including another stress test at Hong Kong International Airport (KHG) that is due to begin at 13:00. Activists have also called for a march in Tuen Mun on Saturday at 15:00 starting at San Wo Lane and then heading to Tuen Mun government offices. A sit-in is also expected to take place on Saturday, to remember the violent attacks that took place in Yuen Long MTR station on July 21. Participants plan to gather at Yuen Long MTR station at 19:00.
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.
