Thousands of people took to the streets of Hong Kong Sunday to mark China’s national day with a pro-democracy rally, and voice growing fears that the city’s liberties are under threat from Beijing.
Sunday’s protest, dubbed an “anti-authoritarian rally”, follows the recent arrests of prominent pro-democracy activists, including a former lawmaker, that have renewed anti-China sentiment. A number of other activists, including founding members of the 2014 campaign known as the Umbrella Movement, are also facing charges and possible jail terms.
Police said 4,300 people had attended the rally, while AFP reporters at the scene estimated around 5,000. Protesters were also seen carrying a banner saying “Hong Kong Independence” alongside a separatist Catalan “Estelada” flag.