In a surprising revelation, Hong Kong’s security chief affirmed that no protest applications have been denied since 2022. Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung attributed the decline in demonstrations not to a retreat of civil society, but to more effective channels for expressing opinions being available. Tang emphasized the government’s enhanced responsiveness to public opinion and highlighted the importance of dialogue over street protests.
Despite the disbanding of major activist groups in recent years, Tang assured that residents still maintained the right to assemble under the law. He also mentioned that police had not amended the Public Order Ordinance governing public processions and gatherings.
Regarding the handling of the 2019 anti-government protests, Tang stated that investigations would continue, and charges pressed if new evidence emerged. The article highlighted that over 10,000 individuals had been arrested by the police, with around 3,000 facing prosecution.
Tang’s tenure has seen tensions with media associations, with his recent comments on the Hong Kong Journalists Association sparking controversy. The dismissal of the association’s chairwoman raised questions about press freedom in the city, which Tang dismissed as a sign of shrinking liberties.