The Hong Kong government on Monday banned a separatist political party in an unprecedented step that has reignited fears of Beijing’s encroachment on the semi-autonomous region.
Hong Kong’s security bureau chief John Lee said the embargo on the Hong Kong National Party (HKNP) was necessary on national security grounds. The ban comes three months after Hong Kong authorities first announced intentions to dissolve the party, which provocatively advocates for independence from China.
“I hereby order that the operation or continued operation of the Hong Kong National Party in Hong Kong be prohibited,” read Monday’s notice.
Anyone found leading the group in violation of the order could face up to three years in prison and maximum fines of $12,000, the Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) reports.
Andy Chan, the party’s 27-year-old convener, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Monday’s ban cited a colonial-era ordinance that has not been enforced since the 1997 transfer of Hong ..