HONG KONG — The Democratic Party, Hong Kong’s largest pro-democracy political organization, has initiated the process for potential dissolution, highlighting the ongoing contraction of space for civil society in the region, particularly after government crackdowns on dissent from Beijing.
In a meeting held on Thursday, the central committee of the party established a task force to explore the necessary procedures for disbanding the organization. However, any final decision regarding dissolution will require the consent of the party’s members.
During a news briefing, party leader Lo Kin-hei elaborated that the decision was influenced by the current political landscape and societal conditions, while clarifying that the party does not face any immediate financial crises. “Deciding to move in this direction evokes a sense of regret. Every member values the existence of the Democratic Party in our city,” he remarked.
Established in 1994, the Democratic Party has been one of the few voices advocating for democracy in Hong Kong, where political activism has endured significant suppression from the central Chinese government following widespread protests against the administration in 2019.
Some notable figures from the party include Martin Lee, often referred to as Hong Kong’s “Father of Democracy,” Albert Ho, past leader of a now-dissolved organization committed to Tiananmen vigil activities, and journalist and activist Emily Lau.
Historically, the Democratic Party has been recognized as a moderate opposing force in the political arena, previously fostering amicable relations with officials in Beijing. Some of its past members transitioned into prominent government roles, despite some radical factions within criticizing their approach as being overly passive.
However, after the large-scale protests in 2019, there was a sharp transformation in Hong Kong’s political environment. The unrest prompted Beijing to enforce a national security law, which authorities claim is vital for maintaining stability in the city.
Since the implementation of this law in 2020, various civil society organizations have been forced to close, including one of the city’s second-biggest pro-democracy parties and a long-standing group that held vigils for Tiananmen Square victims. Many leading activists have faced prosecution under the new legal framework, including individuals from the Democratic Party, while others have had to flee or maintain silence.
Last year, some members of the Democratic Party, who previously served as lawmakers, received convictions and prison sentences tied to their involvement in an unofficial primary election, a significant case related to national security. This ruling drew criticism from various foreign nations, although the Beijing government upheld its legitimacy.
Over recent years, the party’s political impact has diminished due to substantial alterations in electoral regulations that were purportedly intended to guarantee that only “patriots” overseen Hong Kong, effectively excluding pro-democracy candidates from participating in district council elections.
Despite these challenges, the Democratic Party has continued its operations, regularly addressing issues affecting the community and even offering feedback on proposed national security laws before they were passed last March.
During the press conference on Thursday, Lo disclosed that for the disbandment to occur, it would necessitate support from 75% of members present at a general meeting. Currently, the party consists of about 400 members, though attendance at meetings often varies. In the past, there have been both successful and unsuccessful attempts to secure the necessary votes for constitutional changes, he noted.
When the British colony transitioned to Chinese sovereignty in 1997, the principle of “one country, two systems” was intended to safeguard civil liberties and a degree of autonomy akin to rights not afforded to mainland China.
Lo articulated that his party’s understanding of this principle may not align with that of the Hong Kong government, expressing a desire for diverse interpretations to coexist in society, as he believes that varied opinions contribute to societal progress.
“The journey toward democracy is invariably challenging,” Lo affirmed. “I have trust in the people of Hong Kong, and I am confident that they will discover ways to navigate through various issues.”
