HONG-KONG Two million take to the streets in Hong Kong
On Sunday June 9th, one million people protested in Hong Kong against a draft bill that would authorise extraditions from Hong Kong to mainland China. In 1997, Hong Kong, a former British colony after the 19th century opium war, became part of the People’s Republic of China, which it is historically part of, with the status of Special Administrative Region. On June 16 there were two million.Two Chinese working class activists share their thoughts. “We call on workers to stop work.” Ming Lam – HKCTU (Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions) – speaks out. If the bill is passed, it would make it possible for Hong Kong resident citizens to be judged in mainland China by tribunals directly submitted to the Beijing authorities. In mainland China, the judicial system is not independent. If extradition procedures were instituted, everyone would risk their human rights being violated. People suspected of committing offenses in mainland China, but who are Hong Kong [...]