By Micah Jonah
January 22, 2026
A high profile national security trial has begun in Hong Kong against three pro democracy activists, who previously organized public vigils – commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing.
Chow Hang tung, Albert Ho and Lee Cheuk yan, former leaders of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, are facing charges of inciting subversion of state power before the High Court.
As the proceedings opened, Lee acknowledged supporters gathered outside the courtroom, while Chow expressed appreciation to those who waited overnight despite harsh weather conditions. Ho remained silent during the court appearance.
Lee and Chow entered not guilty pleas, while Ho pleaded guilty to the charge.
Security was tight around the courthouse, with dozens of police officers deployed as members of the public queued for limited seating in the public gallery.
For more than three decades, Hong Kong hosted annual candlelight vigils every June 4 to remember victims of the Tiananmen crackdown. The events were banned in 2020 following the introduction of a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing after large scale pro democracy protests in the city.
Human rights organizations have criticized the prosecution, describing it as part of a wider effort to restrict political expression. Amnesty International and other advocacy groups said the case represents an attempt to silence remembrance of the 1989 events.
Chinese authorities, however, have maintained that the national security law restored stability to Hong Kong and is necessary to protect public order.
The trial will be heard by a panel of three judges approved under national security procedures and is expected to run for several weeks. Prosecutors are expected to present videos and historical materials related to the alliance’s past activities.
The Hong Kong Alliance was established in 1989 in response to student led democracy protests in Beijing and continued for decades to call for political reforms in China and accountability for the Tiananmen crackdown, before being disbanded under the national security framework.
The case comes amid heightened international attention following the recent conviction of media executive Jimmy Lai on separate national security related charges, which also sparked criticism from foreign governments and rights groups.
