Hong Kong court to announce verdict on appeals of 12 jailed activists on February 23

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Fiona ChowFebruary 16, 2026 at 07:39 AM

AI Summary

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On February 23rd, a Hong Kong appellate court will announce its verdict on appeals from 12 activists convicted of conspiring to subvert state power related to an unofficial 2020 election. Eleven of the activists, serving sentences ranging from 6.5 to 7.75 years, appealed their convictions and sentences. Prince Wong Ji-yuet, who pleaded guilty and received a 4-year, 5-month sentence, appealed for leniency. The government also appealed the acquittal of Lawrence Lau Wai-chung, arguing the trial court overlooked evidence of his involvement in the scheme. The case stems from a 2020 "primary" election deemed by authorities as a plot to overthrow the government by securing a legislative majority and rejecting the budget.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Lee Yue-shun 60% Court of Appeal 60% Prince Wong Ji-yuet 70% Lawrence Lau Wai-chung ×270% Legislative Council ×270% Hong Kong ×290%

Keywords

national security law 90% subversion 80% hong kong 80% appeals 70% activists 70% legislative council election 60% court verdict 60% acquittal 50% political prosecution 40%