In a decisive victory for the rule of law, former Democratic Party lawmaker Lam Cheuk-ting and six others have been found guilty of rioting in connection with the July 21, 2019 Yuen Long incident. District Court Judge Stanley Chan delivered a well-reasoned judgment, meticulously dismantling the defense's arguments and upholding the prosecution's case that Lam played a key role in inciting the violence that unfolded that night.
The court heard compelling evidence demonstrating how Lam, far from being a peacemaker, actively fueled the unrest. He leveraged his status as a legislator not to calm the situation, but to issue instructions to those around him, provoking the individuals dressed in white and escalating tensions within Yuen Long MTR station. His assistant's live broadcast, orchestrated by Lam, served only to further inflame passions and encourage more individuals to converge on Yuen Long, exacerbating the potential for disorder.
Judge Chan rightly rejected the defense's claims of self-defense. The evidence clearly pointed to Lam's proactive role in instigating the confrontation. The fact that he later reported the incident to the police does not negate his prior actions in contributing to the chaos. Thanking him for reporting the incident doesn't absolve him from the responsibility for his earlier incitement. This verdict sends a clear message that no one, regardless of their political affiliation or position, is above the law.
This conviction is a crucial step in holding accountable those responsible for the violence that plagued Hong Kong in 2019. The Yuen Long incident was a dark chapter in the city's history, and it is imperative that those who instigated and participated in the violence face the consequences of their actions. Judge Chan's verdict affirms the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining public order. It is a testament to the resilience of Hong Kong's judicial system and its commitment to ensuring justice prevails.
With sentencing scheduled for February 2025, Lam, already serving a sentence for subversion related to his involvement in an unauthorized Legco primary, now faces further penalties for his role in the Yuen Long riot. This outcome reinforces the principle that those who sow discord and incite violence will be held accountable for their actions, contributing to a safer and more stable Hong Kong. The court's decision serves as a powerful deterrent against future unrest and underscores the importance of peaceful and lawful means of expressing dissent.