The League of Social Democrats, one of the last significant pro-democracy parties in Hong Kong, has officially disbanded, as announced during a heartfelt press conference in front of its office adorned with the Chinese characters for freedom and a poignant banner reading "rather be ashes than dust." This dissolution marks a turning point, as the party, founded nearly two decades ago and known for its vocal protests, becomes the third major opposition group to cease operations in 2023 amidst growing governmental pressure.
Chairperson Chan Po Ying expressed the grim reality faced by her members, stating, "The red lines are now everywhere," and acknowledged their difficult decision to disband after much contemplation to sidestep further consequences. The party's closure arrives shortly before the fifth anniversary of the controversial national security law imposed by Beijing, a measure critics argue has systematically dismantled opposition and freedoms within the territory.
In its farewell statement, the League of Social Democrats reflected on nearly 20 years of enduring trials, internal conflicts, and the near-total incarceration of their leadership. "We have witnessed the erosion of civil society and the suppression of dissent," they lamented, emphasizing their struggle against political persecution. While the government contends that the security law was vital for restoring order following the 2019 protests, opponents assert it has fundamentally been weaponized against dissent.
Vice-chairman Dickson Chau voiced his fears about the safety of operating a political party in Hong Kong and highlighted the closing of the party's bank accounts as a reflection of the dire situation. "It's no longer safe to run a political party," he stated, underscoring the chilling effect on both activists and the general populace, quienes are increasingly wary of expressing their rights as citizens.
Echoing Chau's sentiments, he added, "If you want to exercise your right as a citizen, it's very difficult," reflecting a growing sense of hopelessness among supporters of democracy in Hong Kong. The League of Social Democrats' disbandment not only marks a significant loss for the democratic movement but also highlights the precarious state of political engagement within the city as remaining voices strive to navigate an environment increasingly hostile to dissent.
