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Hong Kong’s Democratic Party Faces Imminent Dissolution Under Beijing Pressure

The city’s last major pro-democracy party is set to decide its fate at an extraordinary meeting after warnings from Chinese officials to disband or face severe consequences.

Chinese supporters wave Chinese national flags to celebrate the 75th anniversary of China's National Day in Hong Kong, China October 1, 2024. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu
Yeung Sum, the founding member of the Democratic Party, poses for a photo at the Democratic Party's office in Prince Edward in Hong Kong on April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/May James)
Emily Lau, former chairperson of the Democratic Party, right, looks through old photos with a staffer at the Democratic Party's office in Prince Edward in Hong Kong on April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/May James)
Emily Lau, former chairperson of the Democratic Party, walks through the Democratic Party's office in Prince Edward in Hong Kong on April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/May James)

Overview

  • The Democratic Party, Hong Kong's largest and last major pro-democracy party, is preparing for possible dissolution after receiving warnings from Beijing-linked figures.
  • Chinese officials and intermediaries reportedly told party members that disbandment should occur before the December legislative elections, threatening arrests and other severe repercussions.
  • The party will hold an extraordinary meeting on April 13 to deliberate on granting leadership the mandate to proceed with its disbandment process.
  • The move reflects broader political repression following the 2019 protests and the 2020 national security law, which have systematically silenced opposition voices in the city.
  • Observers view the party's potential dissolution as a significant blow to Hong Kong’s democratic legacy and international reputation for autonomy and freedoms.