2024-01-30 11:18:05
[Yahoo News Report]The government has launched a public consultation on 23 pieces of legislation today (30th). The consultation document proposes to clearly define “state secrets”. In addition to national defense and diplomacy, even “Hong Kong economic and social development secrets” are prohibited from being disclosed. Chairman of the Democratic Party, Law Kin-hee, pointed out that in addition to the impact on journalists, many citizens in today’s generation will become “whistleblowers” because they try to protect the interests of the public. The government should consider adding exemption clauses for them, making the protection of “public interest” a defense .
Asked whether Article 23 legislation would affect the operation of the Democratic Party, Luo Jianxi emphasized that the Democratic Party does not cooperate with foreign forces or organizations and has no financial transactions, so he has not seen much impact yet. He also pointed out that after discussion, the Democratic Party will formally submit a written proposal to the government to express the Democratic Party’s position on Article 23 legislation. Whether it will meet with government officials afterwards will be decided after discussion within the party.
He pointed out that since the implementation of the National Security Law, the Democratic Party has paid more attention and caution when conducting public activities. It will continue to be careful when commenting on the 23 pieces of legislation and expressing opinions. There is no special increase in worries. He believes that past public comments have been “within the boundaries” and are in line with the own demands without crossing the line that would be considered illegal. He emphasized that the Democratic Party still represents the ideas of some Hong Kong citizens, and the government should incorporate different opinions and ideas. The government is welcome to invite the Democratic Party to explain.
In the consultation document, the government suggested that the police could apply for the power to extend the detention period to ensure sufficient time for investigation when dealing with crimes endangering national security. Luo Jianxi mentioned that in recent national security-related cases, many arrested persons have not been prosecuted for several years. During this period, their passports were confiscated and they lost their freedom of life. Therefore, he hopes that the government will explain the relevant practices in detail to relieve public doubts.
He also pointed out that the government should clarify what “incitement” and “criticism” are. For example, if someone has different ideas from the government and believes that the legislative process must clearly define what is “inconsistent with the facts”, or is it just a matter of perspective and perspective, he suggests that the government Citizens’ concerns must be clarified as soon as possible. Otherwise, if citizens express their opinions and ideas sincerely and sincerely, they may be accused of “endangering national security.”
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