Public statements by John Lee or official government channels

Three Overseas Judges Resign from Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal Amid Rule of Law Concerns

Jun 11, 2024, 02:19 AM

Three overseas judges have resigned from Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal within a week, citing concerns over the erosion of the rule of law under China's influence. Former judge Jonathan Sumption, who co-ruled landmark riot cases, described an 'oppressive atmosphere' for judges and highlighted the impossibility of operating in the current political environment. Despite these resignations, Hong Kong's government, led by John Lee, insists that judicial independence remains strong. Lee emphasized that judges should interpret laws based on legal principles and evidence, not personal political views. The resignations have intensified international concerns about the city's judicial system and its vulnerability to political pressures. The National Security Law (NSL) has been a significant factor in these developments. Christian Whiton noted that China's takeover has opened Hong Kong to international money laundering and corruption.