Hong Kong’s top court has been asked to abolish a law that bans calls to boycott the city’s patriots-only elections. The appellant argues the measure violates rights to express political disapproval and make informed voting decisions. The government maintains the issue lies outside constitutional review.
Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal heard arguments over the Election (Corrupt and Illegal Conduct) Ordinance. The appellant described the prohibition on urging voters to boycott or cast invalid ballots as extraordinary and inexplicable. He initially challenged the charge but later pleaded guilty after a lower court upheld the law’s constitutionality.
The Court of First Instance rejected his appeal last year. Lawyers for the appellant told the top court that residents should retain the right to voice disapproval of the political system before elections. Government counsel countered that such challenges fall beyond judicial review.
The case centres on the boundaries of free expression in Hong Kong’s restricted electoral framework. Proceedings continue with further submissions expected.
