Article 23 Passes, a New Era Begins

Lee (centre) pleased that Article 23 has finally passed

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu did what one of his predecessors, Tung Chee-hwa could not do -- pass Article 23 -- at warp speed.

"Today is an historic day in Hong Kong," Lee said. "It is an historic moment that Hong Kong has been waiting for 26 years, 8 months, and 19 days... It is a proud moment for all of Hong Kong in collectively making glorious history."

Twenty-one years ago half a million people came out to protest against Article 23 which led to the government shelving it indefinitely.

There were 89 votes for the bill and no dissents

But now with the national security law implemented, and the Legislative Council political landscape completely overhauled to have "only patriots", Article 23 was passed unanimously in a marathon session. Legislative Council President Andrew Leung does not usually take part in votes, but this time he did to seal the deal.

After the vote Lee said Article 23 would come into effect on Saturday, March 23, far earlier than the expected April 15 which would coincide with National Security Education Day.

There were claims of wanting to pass the bill quickly to keep "foreign forces" off guard. 

The new law focuses on severe penalties on a wide range of actions authorities deem threats to national security, where treason and insurrection could be punishable with life imprisonment. The possession of seditious publications could also result in several years in jail. There are some provisions allowing criminal prosecutions for acts committed anywhere in the world.

In addition, Article 23 has tough penalties for people convicted of endangering national security for some offenses if they are found to be working with foreign governments or organisations. It also includes targeting those who damage public infrastructure with the intent to endanger the state and could be jailed for 20 years, or if they colluded with external forces, for life. In 2019 protesters had occupied Hong Kong International Airport and vandalised railway stations.

Lee says Article 23 in effect from Saturday

Beijing's liaison office in Hong Kong said the passage of Article 23 signalled a strong "firewall" that has been built for the city's stability and prosperity, so that it could now focus on promoting economic development and improving people's livelihoods. 

Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung who pushed the legislation through, likened its passage as welcoming his "newborn baby" into the world.

"I have very mixed emotions. I am of course excited to see my child -- Article 23 -- coming into the world soon, but I am also a little bit emotional, as the bill has gone through so many trials and tribulations and miscarriages," he said, looking exhausted standing next to Lee.

However, the passage of the bill drew criticism.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, said adopting Article 23 was "a regressive step for the protection of human rights in Hong Kong."

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said in a statement that "the broad definitions of national security and external interference will make it harder for those who live, work and do business in Hong Kong" and continue the "erosion of freedoms" there.

The European Union said the bill could potentially "significantly affect" the work of the EU office and consulates of EU members, and could impact European Union citizens, organisations and companies in Hong Kong. "This also raises questions about Hong Kong's long-term attractiveness as an international business hub," it said in a statement.

The dawn of the new era in Hong Kong begins March 23.