Hong Kong court hears sentencing arguments for Tiananmen vigil organizers

On August 28, 2026, a Hong Kong court convened to hear arguments regarding the sentencing of three former organizers of the annual Tiananmen Square vigil: Lee Cheuk-yan, Chow Hang-tung, and Albert Ho. These individuals were previously convicted under Hong Kong's national security law for inciting subversion and now face potential prison terms of up to 10 years.

The case centers on the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, a group that organized yearly vigils to commemorate the 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Beijing. The Alliance was disbanded in 2021 following increased scrutiny under the national security law.

During the proceedings, Lee and Chow maintained their not guilty pleas, while Ho had earlier pleaded guilty, which may influence his sentencing outcome. Representing herself, Chow argued that advocating for democracy should not be criminalized and expressed her unwavering commitment to democratic principles, regardless of the potential for imprisonment.

The court determined that the defendants' actions, particularly their calls to end China's one-party rule, constituted violations of the national security law. Judge Alex Lee announced that sentencing would be delivered within two weeks.

This case has attracted significant international attention, with concerns raised about the diminishing freedoms in Hong Kong. The local government, however, asserts that the legal proceedings are conducted based on evidence and in accordance with the law.

Additionally, the court is expected to rule on the fate of the 'Pillar of Shame,' a memorial dedicated to the victims of the 1989 crackdown, which was removed from a Hong Kong university campus in 2021.