Hundreds were expected to march for gender equality ahead of International Women’s Day, but organizers called off the event just hours before it was due to begin
While the march organizers did not say as much, that legislation was seen by many as the reason the event was called off. The “letter of no objection” issued by the police for the demonstration included a condition that the organizers ensure the march would not breach the security law, which carries penalties as severe as life imprisonment.
“Under such pressure, we decided not to attend. Yet we still hoped the march would go ahead and the flags of gender equality would fly high on the streets,” the group said in a statement, adding that the event’s cancellation demonstrated that freedom of expression and the right to protest were “in shreds.”
Police said they “suggested” the group change its plans after a “full risk assessment” that took into account the aims of the event, “past experiences and the current situation.” Hong Konger James Ockenden said he sought permission to organize a march protesting an illegal concrete plant he has covered extensively on his website,, a publication focused on transport and environmental issues. He was warned by police that if more than 30 people turned up, he and other organizers could be prosecuted for holding an illegal assembly, which can result in up to five years in prison.
France Dernières Nouvelles, France Actualités
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