Defence argues Tiananmen vigil activists’ actions ‘lawful’ exercise of rights
Defence lawyer says Hong Kong group aimed to promote democracy and greater political freedom, not oppose or topple Communist Party leadership
He said the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China did not oppose the party or intend to topple its leadership, as its ultimate aim was to develop a democratic system across the border.
“Concerning the abolition of one-party dictatorship and whether it is equivalent to ending the Communist Party’s leadership, there are lawful means to achieve that,” Shum said, adding that all of the alliance’s objectives were a legitimate exercise of fundamental human rights.
Shum, who spoke on behalf of former alliance chairman Lee Cheuk-yan, outlined the defence’s arguments at West Kowloon Court while cross-examining a police superintendent’s understanding of the principles underlying the organiser’s annual candlelight vigil to mark the 1989 crackdown.