Exiled former Hong Kong lawmaker Ted Hui hailed Australia’s recent grant of asylum as a formal acknowledgment of human rights infringements in the territory following the crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2019. Hui, who left Hong Kong over four years ago, received protection on Friday, becoming the first Hong Kong citizen to be granted asylum by Australia since January 2021.
“It is recognition by the Australian government that human rights infringements and erosion of democracy and freedom actually happened and justified granting asylum to people like me,” Hui told Reuters on Monday.
He expressed gratitude for Australia’s support while calling for backing of pro-democracy businessman Jimmy Lai, currently facing national security charges in Hong Kong.
Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong recently raised concerns with Chinese officials over anonymous letters circulated in South Australia offering rewards for information about Hui and his family. The Australian Federal Police are investigating the matter.
Hong Kong authorities condemned the asylum grant, summoning the Australian and British consul generals and describing the move as contrary to the rule of law. China’s foreign ministry labeled Hui an “anti-China rioter” and urged other nations to “stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs.”
Since Hui’s arrival in 2021, 123 Hong Kong citizens have sought asylum in Australia, while many others have secured skilled visas under a program introduced that year to enable permanent residency.
Written By Rodney Mbua
