This week’s charges against pro-democracy politician Au Nok-hin and Cantopop star Anthony Wong are the latest move by the ICAC against prominent pro-democracy figures regarding events that took place years ago
Party volunteers campaigning for pro-democracy by-election candidate Au Nok-hin in Hong Kong on March 9, 2018.The headquarters of the Independent Commission Against Corruption looms over a narrow street in Hong Kong’s North Point neighbourhood, the building’s facade emblazoned with the organization’s iconic red logo: a square of four Chinese characters promising “clean government.”
On Monday, the ICAC announced it was investigating Cantopop star Anthony Wong over a performance he gave in 2018 at an election rally for pro-democracy politician Au Nok-hin. Both men were accused of “engaging in corrupt conduct.” According to the South China Morning Post, both opposition and pro-government candidates have used performers in election rallies in the past, without facing any charges. On Thursday, prosecutors agreed to suspend the case in exchange for slapping both Mr. Au and Mr. Wong with a bind-over order, under which they must avoid further offences for 18 months.
Before these latest charges, both Mr. Tai and Mr. Au were already facing lengthy jail terms in cases brought against them under Hong Kong’s National Security Law, which has been used by the Chinese government for a sweeping crackdown against the opposition since it was imposed on the city by Beijing last year.A campaigning event during primary elections aimed for selecting democracy candidates, in Hong Kong, China, July 11, 2020.
“Regardless of the background, status and position of the persons involved, the ICAC investigates all cases in a fair and just manner,” the spokesperson said, adding that it is “not appropriate for the ICAC to make any comments on the two cases in view of the ongoing legal proceedings.” Dr. Cheung said the scandal resulting from Ms. Li’s ouster “badly damaged the ICAC’s credibility” with many in Hong Kong, a trend that has continued as the organization has targeted pro-democracy figures for investigation.
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