Impact of National Security Law: the Demise of the Civic Party

In a poignant finale to a political chapter, veteran Hong Kong politician Alan Leong clings to the remnants of the Civic Party, preserving six lapel pins marked with the party’s founding date 19.03.06.

The demise of the opposition group, once hailed as the barristers’ party, unfolded in the face of China’s national security law, silencing dissent and reshaping the political landscape.

Co-founder Leong, reflecting on the tumultuous journey, remarked that times have changed. The Civic Party, comprising lawyers, academics, and professionals, surged to become the city’s second-largest opposition force in the legislative council since its establishment in 2006. However, the seismic impact of the security law led to the imprisonment of three members, the ousting of elected politicians, and the listing of a former lawmaker as a wanted fugitive.

…