Hong Kong’s oldest pro-democracy party, which emerged as a significant opposition voice before Beijing intensified its crackdown on dissent, is preparing to disband, according to its leader. Lo Kin-hei, chair of the Democratic Party, announced on Thursday, “We will begin to explore the necessary processes and procedures for disbanding.”
Lo explained to reporters, “We have taken into account the overall political climate in Hong Kong and the foreseeable future plans, leading us to this decision.” He emphasized that the final choice to dissolve the party would be determined by a vote among its members, although he did not specify when that vote would occur.
Founded in 1994 during the final years of British colonial rule, the Democratic Party was formed through the merger of Hong Kong’s leading liberal groups. Its early leaders played a crucial role in establishing the “one country, two systems” framework, which promised Hong Kong a significant degree of autonomy and protection of rights. Following the 1997 handover to China, the party became the most prominent opposition force in Hong Kong’s legislature and organized peaceful protests. However, its influence waned after Beijing tightened control and enacted a national security law in response to large-scale pro-democracy protests in 2019.
“Advancing democracy in Hong Kong has always been challenging,” Lo remarked on Thursday, noting the recent trend of civil society groups and political parties disbanding. When asked if the party faced pressure from Beijing to dissolve, Lo refrained from sharing specifics about internal discussions.
Four former lawmakers from the party, including ex-leader Wu Chi-wai, are currently serving prison sentences for subversion under the national security law. The Democratic Party no longer holds any seats in the legislature following changes to Hong Kong’s electoral system in 2021, which mandated that only “patriots” could assume office.
Emily Lau, a former legislator and a founding member of the Democratic Party, expressed her shock at the news. “We just held an annual general meeting in December and elected a new central committee. There were no indications of a lack of enthusiasm or funds. Everyone was aware of the challenges,” she stated. Lau pointed out that several parties have disbanded since the crackdown on the pro-democracy movement, suggesting that the remnants of the “one country, two systems” framework are being dismantled. “This must indicate that freedoms of association and expression are becoming relics of the past.”
Reflecting on the party’s legacy, Lau said, “Many in Hong Kong have cherished memories of the party, and we have worked diligently to represent the people. While I’m not claiming we were the best, we were one of the largest, and now we hold no seats. It’s very disheartening.” A three-person team, including Lo, will investigate the legal and accounting requirements for the party’s dissolution.
