The PolyU Siege: A Turning Point in the 2019 Protests

The PolyU siege in November 2019 marked a critical juncture in the anti-government movement. For days, hundreds of protesters found themselves trapped within the university campus, encircled by a substantial police presence. Simultaneously, large crowds of supporters gathered nearby, attempting to breach the police lines and provide assistance. The situation escalated into a prolonged standoff, characterized by clashes, tear gas deployment, and widespread concern for the safety of those inside.

On November 18th, the ten defendants attempted to escape the police blockade, but were apprehended during their departure. Their subsequent trial resulted in significant jail sentences, reflecting the severity with which the authorities viewed their actions. The initial sentencing sparked debate regarding the proportionality of the punishment, particularly given the broader political context of the protests.

The appellate judges, Derek Pang, Maggie Poon, and William Tam, acknowledged the trial judge Adriana Tse’s assessment of the protesters’ organization, noting they appeared “as though they were a seasoned army.” However, they determined that the initial six-year starting point for one of the rioting charges was unduly harsh, reducing it to 5.5 years. This adjustment formed the basis for subsequent reductions in the sentences of eight other defendants.

Tse Yuen-siu, initially sentenced to four years and eight and a half months, including time for possessing a walkie-talkie deemed an aggravating factor, received the largest reduction of six months. This highlights the court’s consideration of specific circumstances surrounding each defendant’s case.

Chu Kin-kwan, a nurse who maintained her innocence throughout the trial and received a six-year sentence, benefited from a two-month reduction due to her voluntary work during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. This demonstrates the court’s willingness to consider mitigating factors beyond the immediate offense. However, the appeals of Chu and Ma Kin-long, both sentenced to six years, were rejected, and Ma did not receive any sentencing reduction.

The events at PolyU unfolded against a backdrop of widespread protests that began in June 2019, initially sparked by a controversial extradition bill. These demonstrations rapidly evolved into a broader movement demanding greater democracy and accountability, fueled by concerns over Beijing’s increasing influence in Hong Kong. The protests witnessed escalating clashes between protesters and police, with demonstrators voicing demands for an independent investigation into police conduct, amnesty for arrested protesters, and a halt to the characterization of protests as “riots.”

Did You Know?: The PolyU campus became a symbol of resistance, with protesters constructing elaborate barricades and utilizing innovative tactics to evade police attempts to enter the grounds.

The reduced sentences reflect a complex interplay of legal considerations and the enduring legacy of the 2019 protests. As Hong Kong navigates its evolving political landscape, the events at PolyU continue to serve as a reminder of the deep-seated tensions and aspirations that shaped a pivotal moment in the city’s history. What impact will these reduced sentences have on future protest-related cases in Hong Kong? And how will the memory of PolyU continue to shape the city’s political discourse?

Frequently Asked Questions About the PolyU Protests and Sentencing